Rectal Hem-o-Lok clip migration after robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Innovation
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) is a common procedure for prostate cancer.
• Weck Hem-o-Lok clips are utilized for ligating vascular pedicles during RALP.
• Clip migration, particularly into the bladder, is a known but infrequent complication.

Observation:

• A 61-year-old male underwent RALP for prostate adenocarcinoma.
• Weck Hem-o-Lok clips were used to ligate the prostate vascular pedicles.
• Postoperatively, a migrated clip was identified within the rectum during a colonoscopy for diverticular disease.

Findings:

• The patient had a Gleason 4+3 adenocarcinoma of the prostate.
• No intraoperative complications were noted during the RALP procedure.
• A migrated Weck Hem-o-Lok clip was successfully removed from the rectum without complication.

Implications:

• This case highlights rectal migration as a potential, albeit rare, complication of RALP clip usage.
• Careful consideration and judicious use of surgical clips are essential during RALP.
• Effective communication among healthcare providers is crucial for managing potential post-surgical complications.