Single-site laparoscopic (SSL) cholecystectomy in human cadavers using a novel percutaneous instrument platform and a magnetic anchoring and guidance system (MAGS): reestablishing the "critical view".
Academic Article
Overview
abstract
INTRODUCTION: SSL introduces ergonomic challenges while establishing the critical view during dissection of the Triangle of Calot (TOC). This study investigates the use of a novel percutaneous instrument platform and MAGS in performing SSL cholecystectomy with a technique that closely mimics four-port cholecystectomy. METHODS: SSL cholecystectomy was performed on four female cadavers via a 15-18-mm incision made at the umbilicus for introduction of these devices and the working port. MAGS comprises an internal effector with a retractable monopolar cautery hook coupled across the abdominal wall to an external magnet held by the surgeon. The novel grasper was introduced percutaneously in the RUQ and comprises a 3-mm transabdominal shaft mated to a 5-mm end effector intracorporeally. Retraction was accomplished using the percutaneous grasper to manipulate the fundus and a standard 5-mm grasper at the umbilicus for the infundibulum. Dissection was performed by using a combination of the MAGS and a standard Maryland dissector. Total procedure time, time from procedure start to obtain a critical view of the TOC and clipping and dividing the cystic duct/artery, time for dissection of the gallbladder from the liver bed, and thickness of the abdominal wall at the umbilicus were measured. RESULTS: The critical view was obtained in each case, and all four procedures were completed successfully. Mean procedure time was 40 (range, 33-51) min; time from procedure start to obtaining the critical view and clipping and dividing the cystic duct/artery was 33 (range, 28-38) min, and time for dissection of the gallbladder from the liver bed was 6.7 (range, 3-13) min. The mean abdominal wall thickness was 1.9 (range, 1.5-2) cm. CONCLUSIONS: The use of a novel graspers and MAGS overcomes the limitations of SSL cholecystectomy and improves surgeon dexterity. Making SSL feel more like traditional laparoscopy will enable a wider adoption of this procedure in the community.
