Related Experiment Videos
Laparoscopic-assisted colon anastomosis using the Valtrac ring: an animal study
K Thaler1, F Schoenleben, H Scheidbach
1Department of General Surgery, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany.
Diseases of the Colon and Rectum
|September 25, 1999
Summary
This study demonstrates the feasibility of using the Valtrac ring for creating colonic anastomoses in laparoscopic surgery. The Valtrac ring, with a novel applicator, proved effective in an animal model, offering an alternative to circular staplers.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Innovation
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
Background:
- Circular staplers are standard for deep colon anastomoses in laparoscopic surgery.
- The Valtrac ring presents a theoretical alternative for constructing these anastomoses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of using the Valtrac ring for deep colon anastomoses.
- To assess the efficacy of a newly developed applicator system for the Valtrac ring.
Main Methods:
- An animal study involving nine pigs under general anesthesia.
- Colon division and anastomosis creation using the Valtrac ring and a specialized applicator.
- Exteriorization of the proximal colon for ring fixation and transanal applicator insertion.
Main Results:
- Eight out of nine animals survived the procedure.
- One animal experienced anastomotic insufficiency, leading to mortality.
- No signs of anastomotic insufficiency were observed in the surviving animals at follow-up.
Conclusions:
- The Valtrac ring, with the new applicator, is a feasible option for colonic anastomosis.
- This method is comparable to circular staplers for creating anastomoses below the promontorium.
- Further research may explore clinical applications of this technique.