The utilization of a morcellator during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

Obesity continues to plague much of the western world. With the novel approach of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), there are exciting results being reported in weight loss. One key problem in this patient population is hernia occurrences, particularly at the largest site where the specimen was retrieved. Using an interdisciplinary research design, a new technological breakthrough was proposed. A morcellator was introduced through the existing 15 millimeter (mm) incision to retrieve the resected portion of the stomach. This technology utilized widely by the obstetricians and gynecologists has been proven to retrieve specimens through smaller incisions fostering less pain, greater mobility, earlier discharge from hospitals--ultimately greater patient care. When applied to general bariatric surgery this technology is human centered, is exceedingly affordable, practical yet very forward looking. The morcellator's role in bariatric surgery is drawn from interdisciplinary communication regarding human technology, however the use of this innovative device has the potential to revolutionize the removal of resected specimens. The application of the morcellator in this regards has never been utilized to our knowledge.