The surgical procedure and the protocol were explained to the patients, and they signed a consent form. This study was approved by the local ethics committees of the institutional review board and informed consent were collected from patients, register number 1688/20. Patients who underwent transhiatal esophagectomy were included in the protocol, while those patients who underwent a transthoracic approach were excluded.
1. Production of low-cost single-port device
<ol>
	<li>Use a nasogastric tube, a sterile number-eight glove, a sterile sponge, 3 permanent 5-mm trocars and surgical suture materials.</li>
	<li>Make one cylinder with the sterile sponge.</li>
	<li>Use three glove fingers to triangulation the trocars: little finger, middle finger and thumb</li>
	<li>Use the three trocars to pierce the sponge and perform a triangulation (Figure 1 and Figure 2).</li>
	<li>Make one ring with the nasogastric tube.</li>
	<li>Place the sponge, the trocars and the glove between the ring to seal the air leak during mediastinoscopy and to stabilize the structures.</li>
	<li>Use the glove to cover all the structures to prevent air leak again.</li>
</ol>
2. Laparoscopic and transhiatal procedure
<ol>
	<li>Put the patient under general anesthesia in a supine position.</li>
	<li>Insert an orotracheal, a central venous and an invasive arterial pressure catheter respectively in the trachea, jugular vein and radial artery.</li>
	<li>Create a pneumoperitoneum using a Veress needle. Insert the needle in the midline above the umbilical scar.</li>
	<li>Place laparoscopic trocars in the following positions: one 12-mm trocar in the supraumbilical area, two 10-mm trocars in the left and right hypochondrium, and two 5-mm trocars in the right hypochondrium and the epigastrium.</li>
	<li>Perform abdominal cavity inventory to search for peritoneal or liver metastasis.</li>
	<li>Examine the gastroepiploic arcade from the right gastroepiploic artery to the short gastric vessels.</li>
	<li>Open up the gastrocolic ligament to the pilorus to gastric fundus while preserving the gastroepiploic arcade.</li>
	<li>Perform the posterior gastric wall release. Lift up the posterior aspect of the stomach and dissect using an ultrasonic harmonic scalpel to free it from the retroperitoneum. Identify the pancreas, left gastric vessels, and celiac trunk.</li>
	<li>Make a gastric tube with a stapler. Start stapling in the antrum by the lesser curvature and move towards the greater curvature. Make a slim gastric tube to create an anastomosis in the cervical esophagus and empty it properly.</li>
	<li>Perform dissection and ligation of the left gastric vessels at the origin to harvest the appropriate lymph nodes. Perform the dissection cranially to the origin of the left gastric vein and the left gastric artery.
	<ol>
		<li>Use one clip proximally and other distally in the left gastric vein before sealing it. Use two hemolocks proximally and one distally in the left gastric artery before sealing it.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Sequentially dissect all the lymph nodes and connective tissue along the left gastric artery (7), common hepatic artery (8a), celiac trunk (9), proximal splenic artery (11p), lesser curvature (3), and the esophago gastric junction (1) and reflect toward the stomach.</li>
	<li>Perform dissection of the esophageal hiatus. Enlarge the hiatus anteriorly to facilitate dissection and mobilization of the thoracic esophagus and the other mediastinal structures.</li>
	<li>Identify the aorta and dissect the posterior wall of the esophagus from the descending aorta with a harmonic scalpel.</li>
	<li>Continue the dissection of the esophagus in a paraesophageal plane in the lower mediastinum under pneumomediastinum. In the middle to upper portion of the mediastinum, however, this dissection is normally performed blindly and may lead to tracheal lesions or hemorrhage from tearing of the larger vessels.</li>
	<li>Stop the dissection in the transition of the middle to upper mediastinum up to the carina and started with a single-port mediastinoscopic cervical approach using a rendezvous technique (this technique is described below).</li>
</ol>
3. Transcervical procedure
<ol>
	<li>Make an oblique incision along the anterior border of the left lower sternocleidomastoid parallel to the clavicle.</li>
	<li>Identify the sternocleidomastoid muscle and divide.</li>
	<li>Mobilize the cervical esophagus and initiate the dissection of the cervical lymph nodes along the left recurrent laryngeal nerve.</li>
	<li>Insert the single-port device into the cervical wound (Figure 3) and create a pneumomediastinum by carbon dioxide insufflation (8 mmHg). Use a 5-mm Otic and a Harmonic Scalpel for esophagus dissection along with a laparoscopic grasper.</li>
	<li>Dissect the esophagus over the aortic arch and behind the superior portion of the trachea. Perform the dissection of the lymph nodes along the left recurrent laryngeal nerve and trachea.</li>
	<li>After this stage, completely mobilize the esophagus, and reach the region that was dissected using a transhiatal approach. Divide the cervical esophagus, and remove the esophagus with the tumor by an abdominal incision.</li>
	<li>Perform cervical anastomosis with gastric tube and esophageal stump.</li>
</ol>

<ol>
	<li>Borggreve, A. S., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Surgical+treatment+of+esophageal+cancer+in+the+era+of+multimodality+management.">Surgical treatment of esophageal cancer in the era of multimodality management.</a> Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. 1434 (1), 192-209 (2018).</li><li>Kato, H., Nakajima, M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Treatments+for+esophageal+cancer:+a+review.">Treatments for esophageal cancer: a review.</a> General Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery. 61 (6), 330-335 (2013).</li><li>Rice, T. W., Patil, D. T., Blackstone, E. H. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=8th+edition+AJCC/UICC+staging+of+cancers+of+the+esophagus+and+esophagogastric+junction+application+to+clinical+practice.">8th edition AJCC/UICC staging of cancers of the esophagus and esophagogastric junction application to clinical practice.</a> Annalsof Cardiothoracic Surgery. 6 (2), 119-130 (2017).</li><li>Hulscher, J. B., Tijssen, J. G., Obertop, H., van Lanschot, J. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Transthoracic+versus+transhiatal+resection+for+carcinoma+of+the+esophagus:+a+meta-analysis.">Transthoracic versus transhiatal resection for carcinoma of the esophagus: a meta-analysis.</a> Annals of Thoracic Surgery. 72 (1), 306-313 (2001).</li><li>Rentz, J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Transthoracic+versus+transhiatal+esophagectomy:+a+prospective+study+of+945+patients.">Transthoracic versus transhiatal esophagectomy: a prospective study of 945 patients.</a> Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery. 125 (5), 1114-1120 (2003).</li><li>Tokairin, Y., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Mediastinoscopic+subaortic+and+tracheobronchial+lymph+node+dissection+with+a+new+cervico-hiatal+crossover+approach+in+thiel-embalmed+cadavers.">Mediastinoscopic subaortic and tracheobronchial lymph node dissection with a new cervico-hiatal crossover approach in thiel-embalmed cadavers.</a> International Surgery. 100, 580-588 (2015).</li><li>Fujiwara, H., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Single-port+mediastinoscopic+lymphadenectomy+along+the+left+recurrent+laryngeal+nerve.">Single-port mediastinoscopic lymphadenectomy along the left recurrent laryngeal nerve.</a> Annals of Thoracic Surgery. 100 (3), 1115-1117 (2015).</li><li>Gupta, V., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Major+airway+injury+during+esophagectomy:+experience+at+a+tertiary+care+center.">Major airway injury during esophagectomy: experience at a tertiary care center.</a> Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery. 13 (3), 438-441 (2009).</li><li>Hulscher, J. B., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Injury+to+the+major+airways+during+subtotal+esophagectomy:+incidence,+management,+and+sequelae.">Injury to the major airways during subtotal esophagectomy: incidence, management, and sequelae.</a> Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery. 120 (6), 1093-1096 (2000).</li><li>Fermin, L., Arnold, S., Nunez, L., Yakoub, D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Extracorporeal+membrane+oxygenation+for+repair+of+tracheal+injury+during+transhiatal+esophagectomy.">Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for repair of tracheal injury during transhiatal esophagectomy.</a> Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia. 20, 67-69 (2017).</li></ol>

There are no disclosures.

The LoCoSP device allows for safer surgery using a transcervical approach in minimally invasive THE. This is accomplished by improving the recognition and dissection of the esophagus, trachea, and the aortic arch under magnified vision. The advantages of THE are amplified. In addition to allowing surgery with less morbidity and fewer pulmonary complications, this technique can improve the dissection of left paratracheal and recurrent lymph nodes. Another advantage of this technique is that it is possible to reduce the risk of tracheal and vascular injury during THE. 
Damage of the posterior wall of the trachea or the main bronchi rarely occurs during esophagectomy, and the reported rates are 1.35%8 to 1.8%9. However, when it does happen, the prognosis is unfavorable10. Dissection with a single-port mediastinoscopic cervical approach allows for direct visualization of the upper esophagus and the trachea, which could possibly decrease the chances of injury to the airways. Finally, the production of the LoCoSP device is easy, and it can be reproduced in other centers. The device is produced using cheap and widely available instruments in any operating room. An important limitation of the technique is the leakage of air through the cervical wound, during the dissection of the upper mediastinum. Nevertheless, the method is still an experimental method, and the real benefit of using the LocOSP device must be studied and analyzed in a greater number of patients.

There are multiple options for the treatment of esophageal cancer, which involve endoscopy, surgery1, neoadjuvant, and definitive treatment with chemoradiotherapy2. Esophagectomy is the most important element in the curative treatment of patients with advanced esophageal cancer3, and the two main approaches currently used for surgical treatment are transthoracic esophagectomy (TTE) and transhiatal esophagectomy (THE). However, the choice of approach remains controversial. Since TTE requires pulmonary collapse during surgery, more frequent pulmonary complications are to be expected than in a transhiatal approach. Minimally invasive techniques are used to reduce access trauma to the lungs and others structures of the thorax, but they do not decrease the morbidity in comparison to THE. Thus, minimally invasive THE has become a more attractive option; however, the upper esophagus and upper mediastinum are difficult areas to dissect due to blind areas, and cervical incision might be not enough to allow a safe dissection of the upper part.
Laparoscopic THE reduces morbidity4 and enhances postoperative recovery with no compromise in cancer recurrence or survival5. THE has been shown to decrease the hospital stay, hospital mortality, surgical time, and blood loss. Furthermore, TTE has a higher risk of pulmonary complications. The patient's stay in the intensive care unit is significantly longer after transthoracic resection, and hospital stay is also significantly prolonged. 
However, there is an issue with THE regarding the lymph node dissection, particularly in the upper mediastinum, which is a blind area. This results in a risk of tracheal and vascular lesions during the surgery. Tokairin6 et al. and Fujiwara et al. described a single-port mediastinoscopic method for upper mediastinal dissection in esophageal cancer surgery. This technique enabled clear visualization of the structures around the aortic arch and safe lymphadenectomy7. A low-cost single-port device was developed to improve upper mediastinal dissection using a left transcervical mediastinoscopic approach, which was used to improve the visibility and dissection in the upper mediastinum around the aortic arch. The aim of this project is to describe the step-by-step process of a laparoscopic THE completed using a mediastinoscopy cervical approach with a low-cost single-port device in a rendezvous technique.

low-cost single-port (locosp) device for a transcervical approach in minimally invasive transhiatal esophagectomy

Esophagectomy remains the preferred option to achieve curative treatment in advanced esophageal cancer, but the choice of surgical approach remains controversial. A transthoracic approach may improve lymph node dissection, but it has considerable morbidity and respiratory complications. Transhiatal access has been demonstrated as an efficient means of minimizing post-operative complications. Minimally invasive transhiatal esophagectomy may reduce operative trauma and morbidity as well as enhance postoperative recovery with no compromise in cancer recurrence or survival. Nevertheless, it has a technical limitation in terms of cervical esophagus dissection. Thus, a low-cost single-port device was developed to complete upper mediastinal dissection by a transcervical approach during minimally invasive transhiatal esophagectomy. This device uses a nasogastric tube, a number-eight sterile glove, a sterile sponge, and 3 permanent 5-mm trocars. The step-by-step process of transhiatal esophagectomy and the development of this device are described. This technique allows for the dissection of the upper mediastinum, as well as the esophagus over the aortic arch and behind the superior portion of the trachea. The harvesting of lymph nodes along the left recurrent laryngeal nerve and paratracheals was improved.

The LoCoSP device is a useful tool for safely dissecting the structures of the upper mediastinum. Direct visualization of the cervical and upper thoracic esophagus allows for safe dissection with less risk of tracheal injury and hemorrhage from tearing of the larger vessels, in addition to improving the lymphadenectomy of the left recurrent laryngeal and paratracheal nodes.
From 2018 to 2020, 12 patients with distal esophageal carcinoma (2 squamous cell carcinoma and 10 adenocarcinoma) were submitted to laparoscopic transhiatal esophagectomy with transcervical access to cervical esophagus dissection and lymphadenectomy. The median age was 62 (60 &#177; 85) years old, only one patient was female. There was no chordal palsy, bleeding, tracheal damage related to the transcervical access. One anastomotic fistula occurred with no clinical complications, spontaneous drainage through the cervical incision. The median operation time was 360 min (300 &#177; 420 min), and the operation time of the transcervical dissection of the cervical esophagus was 60 min (40 &#177; 110 min). The median hospital stay was 10 days (9 &#177; 12 days). All cases were performed with the LoCoSP device (Table 1).
<img alt="Figure 1" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/62509/62509fig01.jpg" /> 
Figure 1: Low-cost single-port device <a href="https://www-jove-com.bdigitaluss.remotexs.co/files/ftp_upload/62509/62509fig01large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
<img alt="Figure 2" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/62509/62509fig02.jpg" /> 
Figure 2: Low-cost single-port device (note the triangulation of the three trocars) <a href="https://www-jove-com.bdigitaluss.remotexs.co/files/ftp_upload/62509/62509fig02large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
<img alt="Figure 3" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/62509/62509fig03.jpg" /> 
Figure 3: Low-cost single-port device into the cervical wound <a href="https://www-jove-com.bdigitaluss.remotexs.co/files/ftp_upload/62509/62509fig03large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
<table border="1" fo:keep-together.within-page="1" fo:keep-with-next.within-page="always">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Total Patients</td>
			<td>12</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Median Age (years)</td>
			<td>62</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Number Anastomotic fistula</td>
			<td>1</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Median operation time (minutes)</td>
			<td>360</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Median operation time transcervical dissection (minutes)</td>
			<td>60</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Median Hospital stay (days)</td>
			<td>10</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>
Table 1: Surgery results using low cost single-port device

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Low-Cost Single-Port LoCoSP Device for a Transcervical Approach in Minimally Invasive Transhiatal Esophagectomy at JoVE.com

Low-Cost Single-Port LoCoSP Device for a Transcervical Approach in Minimally Invasive Transhiatal Esophagectomy

Here, we describe a step-by-step description of transhiatal esophagectomy and the development of a low-cost single-port device for a transcervical approach in a minimally invasive transhiatal esophagectomy.

Low-Cost Single-Port (LoCoSP) Device for a Transcervical Approach in Minimally Invasive Transhiatal Esophagectomy

Esophagectomy remains the preferred option to achieve curative treatment in advanced esophageal cancer, but the choice of surgical approach remains ...

low-cost-single-port-locosp-device-for-transcervical-approach

Universidad San Sebastian

Research

JoVE Journal

Medicine

2.8K Views.  University of São Paulo. Here, we describe a step-by-step description of transhiatal esophagectomy and the development of a low-cost single-port device for a transcervical approach in a minimally invasive transhiatal esophagectomy.

Video: Low-Cost Single-Port LoCoSP Device for a Transcervical Approach in Minimally Invasive Transhiatal Esophagectomy

An Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy Designed to Minimize Anastomotic Complications and Optimize Conduit Function

We describe a novel esophagogastric anastomotic technique (&ldquo;side-to-side: staple line-on-staple line&rdquo;, STS) for intrathoracic anastomoses designed to create a large diameter anastomosis while simultaneously maintaining conduit blood supply. This technique aims to minimize the incidence of anastomotic leaks and strictures, which is a frequent source of morbidity and occasional mortality after esophagectomy. We analyze the results of this STS technique on 368 patients and compared outcomes to 112 patients who underwent esophagogastric anastomoses using an end-to-end stapler (EEA) over an 8-year time interval at our institution.
The STS technique involves aligning the remaining intrathoracic esophagus over the tip of the lesser curve staple line of a stomach tube, created as a replacement conduit for the esophagus. A linear stapling device cuts through and restaples the conduit staple line to the lateral wall of the esophagus in a side-to-side fashion. The open common lumen is then closed in two layers of sutures.
There was a total of 12 (3.8%) anastomotic leaks in patients who underwent STS esophagogastric anastomosis. Two of eight patients (25%) had anastomotic leaks after esophagectomy for end-stage achalasia as compared to a 2.8% leak rate (10/336) after esophagectomy for other conditions. Eighteen (5.2%) patients required a median of 2 dilatations for anastomotic stricture after STS anastomosis. Supplemental jejunostomy feedings were required in only 11.1% of patients undergoing STS anastomoses following hospital discharge. In contrast, patients undergoing EEA anastomoses demonstrated anastomotic leak and stricture rates of 16.1% and 14.3% respectively (p&lt;0.01). Time analysis of postoperative contrast studies following the STS technique typically demonstrated a straight/uniform diameter conduit with essentially complete contrast emptying into the small bowel within 3 minutes in 88.4% of patients.
The incidence of esophagogastric anastomotic leaks and strictures were extremely low using this novel anastomotic technique. Additionally we believe that based on time and qualitative analyses of postoperative contrast studies, this technique appears to optimize postoperative upper gastrointestinal tract function; however, further comparative studies are needed.

We describe a novel intrathoracic esophagogastric anastomotic technique designed to create a large diameter anastomosis while simultaneously maintaining conduit blood supply to minimize the incidence of anastomotic leaks and strictures. Construction and orientation of the stomach conduit designed to optimize upper gastrointestinal tract function is also described.

We describe a novel esophagogastric anastomotic technique (&ldquo;side-to-side: staple line-on-staple line&rdquo;, STS) for intrathoracic anastomoses ...

Cancer Research

Electromagnetic Navigation Transthoracic Nodule Localization for Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery

The increased use of chest computed tomography (CT) has led to an increased detection of pulmonary nodules requiring diagnostic evaluation and/or excision. Many of these nodules are identified and excised via minimally invasive thoracic surgery; however, subcentimeter and subsolid nodules are frequently difficult to identify intra-operatively. This can be mitigated by the use of electromagnetic transthoracic needle localization. This protocol delineates the step-by-step process of electromagnetic localization from the pre-operative period to the postoperative period and is an adaptation of the electromagnetically guided percutaneous biopsy previously described by Arias et al. Pre-operative steps include obtaining a same day CT followed by the generation of a three-dimensional virtual map of the lung. From this map, the target lesion(s) and an entry site are chosen. In the operating room, the virtual reconstruction of the lung is then calibrated with the patient and the electromagnetic navigation platform. The patient is then sedated, intubated, and placed in the lateral decubitus position. Using a sterile technique and visualization from multiple views, the needle is inserted into the chest wall at the prechosen skin entry site and driven down to the target lesion. Dye is then injected into the lesion and, then, continuously during needle withdrawal, creating a tract for visualization intra-operatively. This method has many potential benefits when compared to the CT-guided localization, including a decreased radiation exposure and decreased time between the dye injection and the surgery. Dye diffusion from the pathway occurs over time, thereby limiting intra-operative nodule identification. By decreasing the time to surgery, there is a decrease in wait time for the patient, and less time for dye diffusion to occur, resulting in an improvement in nodule localization. When compared to electromagnetic bronchoscopy, airway architecture is no longer a limitation as the target nodule is accessed via a transparenchymal approach. Details of this procedure are described in a step-by-step fashion.

Presented here is a protocol for lung nodule localization using dye marking via electromagnetically navigated transthoracic needle access. The technique described here can be accomplished in the peri-operative period to optimize nodule localization and to successful resection when performing minimally invasive thoracic surgery.

The increased use of chest computed tomography (CT) has led to an increased detection of pulmonary nodules requiring diagnostic evaluation and/or ...

Full-Endoscopic Transforaminal Approach for Lumbar Discectomy

With technical advancements, the full-endoscopic transforaminal approach for lumbar discectomy (ETALD) is gaining popularity. This technique utilizes various tools and instruments, including a dilator, a beveled working sleeve, and an endoscope with a 20-degree angle and 177 mm length, equipped with a 9.3-diameter oval shaft and a 5.6 mm diameter working channel. Additionally, the procedure involves using a Kerrison punch (5.5 mm), rongeur (3-4 mm), punch (5.4 mm), tip control radioablator applying a radiofrequency current of 4 MHz, fluid control irrigation and suction pump device, 5.5 mm oval burr with lateral protection, burr round, and the diamond round. During the surgery, it is essential to identify significant landmarks, including the caudal pedicle, ascending facet, annulus fibrosis, posterior longitudinal ligament, and the exiting nerve root. The steps of the technique are relatively easy to follow, especially when utilizing the appropriate instruments and having a good understanding of the anatomy. Research studies have demonstrated comparable outcomes to open microdiscectomy techniques. ETALD presents itself as a safe option for lumbar discectomy, as it minimizes tissue disruption, results in low postoperative surgical site pain, and allows for early mobilization.

The present protocol describes the full-endoscopic transforaminal approach for lumbar discectomy, which is a safe technique that does not require muscle retraction or bone removal.

With technical advancements, the full-endoscopic transforaminal approach for lumbar discectomy (ETALD) is gaining popularity. This technique utilizes ...

Neuroscience

Full Endoscopic Transforaminal Thoracic Discectomy Operative Technique

Thoracic disc herniations are a degenerative pathology of the thoracic spine wherein a portion of nucleus pulposis herniates into the epidural space, potentially causing spinal cord or nerve root compression. Traditional surgical treatment for patients with thoracic disc herniations requires relatively invasive anterior or posterolateral approaches that involve extensive muscular dissection and removal of bone in order to access and remove the disc herniation without causing undue compression of the spinal cord. Full endoscopic thoracic discectomy is a minimally invasive technique which allows for the resection of thoracic disc herniations through a small (1 cm) incision, minimizing collateral tissue trauma and obviating the need for the extensive muscle dissection and bony removal required for traditional surgical approaches. In this article, we describe in detail the operative technique for full endoscopic thoracic discectomy and discuss the pearls and pitfalls of the technique. We also provide a review of the outcomes and complications as seen in the literature.

This protocol demonstrates the surgical technique for full endoscopic transforaminal resection of thoracic disc herniations.

Thoracic disc herniations are a degenerative pathology of the thoracic spine wherein a portion of nucleus pulposis herniates into the epidural space, ...

Laparoscopic Radical Antegrade Modular Pancreatosplenectomy via Dorsal-Caudal Artery Approach for Pancreatic Neck-Body Cancer

Laparoscopic radical resection of the pancreatic neck is one of the most complicated radical operations for pancreatic cancer, especially for patients who have had neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Here, we present a technique to perform laparoscopic radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy (L-RAMPS) using the dorsal-caudal artery approach by making full use of the high-definition vision and operation modes of the laparoscope.
The innovation and optimization of this operation are provided in the protocol. Priority should be given to the dorsal resection plane, including the dorsal side of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA), the dorsal side of the pancreatic head, the root of the celiac artery (CeA), the ventral side of the left renal vessels, and the renal hilum. On the condition that the operation for pancreatic neck-body cancer is feasible and safe, the second step is to perform tumor resection en bloc surrounding the SMA and CeA from the caudal to the cephalic side to increase the rate of R0 (radical zero) resection and further prognosis.

Laparoscopic Radical Antegrade Modular Pancreatosplenectomy via Dorsal-Caudal Artery Approach for Pancreatic Neck-Body Cancer

With advancements in laparoscopic techniques, laparoscopic radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy (L-RAMPS) has been widely recognized. However, owing to several technical difficulties in this procedure, the artery-first approach in L-RAMPS still remains uncommon. Here, we developed the dorsal-caudal artery approach for L-RAMPS, which might be safe and beneficial for pancreatic neck tumors.

Laparoscopic radical resection of the pancreatic neck is one of the most complicated radical operations for pancreatic cancer, especially for patients who ...

Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach for Thyroid Lobectomy

The manuscript describes the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) for thyroid lobectomy. The patient is placed in the supine position with extension and fixation of the neck. One 20 mm transverse incision and two 5 mm incisions are made through the mucosa of the oral vestibule for camera and instrument placement after disinfection of the skin and oral cavity. The workspace is established and maintained by the skin suspension device, which is made of unabsorbable string (3-0) and rubber bands, and the CO2 insufflation pressure. Lobectomy using a medial-to-lateral technique and prophylactic ipsilateral central neck dissection is performed simultaneously on patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). The specimen is extracted through the 20 mm incision. The parathyroid gland is immediately searched for in the specimen and auto-transplanted to the left brachioradialis. A drainage tube is inserted through the retractor hole into the bed of the thyroid gland, and absorbable sutures are used to close the mucosal incisions in the oral vestibule and the linea alba cervicalis. Prophylactics administered intravenously are recommended for the first 24 h after surgery, and oral antibiotics are used for 7 days postoperatively.

Here, we present a protocol to describe the methodology for the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach in detail.

The manuscript describes the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) for thyroid lobectomy. The patient is placed in the supine ...

Gasless Endoscopic Thyroidectomy via the Trans-Axillary Approach

For patients with early, low-risk papillary thyroid carcinoma, an increasing number are opting for endoscopic thyroid surgery due to its ability to achieve favorable therapeutic outcomes while maintaining excellent cosmetic results. Among the available endoscopic procedures, the Gasless Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Trans-axillary Approach (GETTA) has gained popularity among surgeons. This is attributed to its straightforward cavity construction, spacious operating area, precise visual field exposure, and manageable learning curve. However, few studies have provided detailed descriptions of the specific surgical steps involved in GETTA. Drawing from a synthesis of existing literature and our own clinical expertise, we present a comprehensive outline of the GETTA procedure. This process can be categorized into five distinct stages: positioning and incision planning; establishment of surgical cavities; identification and protection of the recurrent laryngeal nerve, inferior parathyroid gland, and central neck dissection; localization and preservation of the superior laryngeal nerve, superior parathyroid gland, and dissection of the thyroid's superior pole; transection of the thyroid isthmus followed by en bloc resection of the thyroid gland and central neck lymph nodes. The five-step approach of GETTA is easy to learn and can be adapted for resecting both benign and malignant thyroid and parathyroid diseases.

Gasless Endoscopic Thyroidectomy via the Trans-Axillary Approach

This protocol presents the procedure for conducting thyroidectomy using the gasless endoscopic thyroidectomy trans-axillary approach (GETTA).

For patients with early, low-risk papillary thyroid carcinoma, an increasing number are opting for endoscopic thyroid surgery due to its ability to ...

Reoperative Hiatal Hernia Repair

Technical Considerations and Approach to Redo Foregut Surgery

Foregut surgical techniques have advanced significantly over the years and have become increasingly popular. However, new challenges and technical considerations have arisen when dealing with reoperation for complications or surgical failure. This study focuses on the technical considerations and approach when dealing with reoperative foregut surgery, particularly redo&#160;hiatal hernia repair. We describe our approach starting from the preoperative workup to the procedural steps of the surgery. The present study describes the main steps for robotic reoperative hiatal hernia repair in a patient who had previously undergone laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair with Nissen fundoplication but did not present a recurrence of reflux and dysphagia symptoms. The patient is positioned supine with arms out and a footboard for steep Trendelenburg. We place six trocars, including an assistant port and a liver retractor port,&#160;to facilitate visualization and retraction. After docking the robot, we use a combination of electrocautery and sharp dissection&#160;to free the hernia sac and reduce the hiatal hernia. The previous fundoplication is then taken down carefully and the esophagus is mobilized through a transhiatal approach with a combination of blunt and sharp dissection until at least 3 cm of intra-abdominal esophageal length is achieved, after which a leak test is performed. We then perform a crural repair to reapproximate the hiatus with two posterior stitches and one anterior stitch. Lastly, a redo Nissen fundoplication is performed over a bougie, and endoscopy is used to confirm a loose stack-of-coin appearance. By emphasizing the crucial steps of redo hiatal hernia repair, including preoperative evaluation, our goal is to provide an approach for the foregut surgeon to maximize patient outcomes.

Author Spotlight: Recent Advancements in Reoperative Foregut Surgery

Redo foregut surgery is associated with increased patient morbidity and presents a technical challenge for the surgeon. We describe our approach and considerations when performing a redo hiatal hernia repair to provide a guide for other surgeons and improve patient outcomes.

Foregut surgical techniques have advanced significantly over the years and have become increasingly popular. However, new challenges and technical ...

Laparoscopic Duodenum-Preserving Pancreatic Head Resection via Inferior Infracolic Approach: A Surgical Approach for Benign Lesions

Minimally invasive pancreatic resections are gaining popularity despite being technically demanding. However, in contrast to laparoscopic pancreatoduodenectomy (LPD), laparoscopic duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection (LDPPHR) has not yet obtained wide acceptance. This could be attributed to the technical challenges involved in preserving the blood supply of the duodenum and bile duct.
This study describes and demonstrates all the steps of LDPPHR. A 48-year-old woman was diagnosed with a 3.0 cm x 2.5 cm pancreatic head cystic mass, which was detected unexpectedly. The surgery was performed using the 3D laparoscopy via an inferior infracolic approach. The operation lasted approximately 310 min with 100 mL of blood loss. Postoperatively, the patient experienced no complications and was discharged 5 days later. Pathology revealed intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms.
LDPPHR via an inferior infracolic approach is feasible and safe when performed by experienced surgeons in selected patients with thin mesenteric fat layers. The described technique for LDPPHR via inferior infracolic approach should be well standardized and performed at high-volume centers with experienced surgeons in both open and laparoscopic pancreatology.

This article provides a whole technical process of laparoscopic duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection via an inferior infracolic approach. This is a surgical approach for benign tumors without intraoperative fluorescence image guidance.

Minimally invasive pancreatic resections are gaining popularity despite being technically demanding. However, in contrast to laparoscopic ...

Treatment of Achalasia by Robot-Assisted Heller Myotomy

Robotic Heller Myotomy for Advancements in Surgical Management of Achalasia

Achalasia is an esophageal motility disorder. It occurs due to the destruction of nerves in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which leads to the failure of the LES to relax. Patients typically complain of dysphagia, chest pain, and regurgitation. They often report drinking liquids with solids intake to help propel food boluses into the stomach. The diagnosis of achalasia is typically confirmed with an esophagogram and a motility study (esophageal manometry). An esophagogram classically shows the bird beak sign with tapering in the distal esophagus. The treatment for achalasia includes both surgical and non-surgical options. Surgical treatment is associated with a lower rate of recurrences, high clinical success rate, and durability of symptom relief. The current gold standard of surgical technique is myotomy, or the dividing of the muscle fibers of the distal esophagus. Surgical myotomy can be accomplished via a laparoscopic or robotic technique; per-oral endoscopic myotomy is a new alternative intervention. Due to the theoretical risk of gastroesophageal reflux following a myotomy, an antireflux procedure is sometimes performed. We reviewed the approach to a robotic heller myotomy for the treatment of achalasia.

Author Spotlight: Cutting-Edge Robotic Heller Myotomy Protocol for Treatment of Achalasia

The protocol presents a robotic approach to Heller myotomy for the treatment of achalasia.

Achalasia is an esophageal motility disorder. It occurs due to the destruction of nerves in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which leads to the ...

Low-Cost Single-Port (LoCoSP) Device for a Transcervical Approach in Minimally Invasive Transhiatal Esophagectomy

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Technical Considerations and Approach to Redo Foregut Surgery

Laparoscopic Duodenum-Preserving Pancreatic Head Resection via Inferior Infracolic Approach: A Surgical Approach for Benign Lesions

Robotic Heller Myotomy for Advancements in Surgical Management of Achalasia