Lung resection using transumbilical incision: an animal survival study

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Transumbilical single-port surgery offers improved cosmesis and potentially fewer complications than conventional laparoscopic surgery.
• It may reduce risks of intercostal neuralgia and pulmonary issues associated with video-assisted thoracic surgery.
• This study investigates the feasibility of transumbilical lung wedge resection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the technical feasibility of performing lung wedge resections using a transumbilical approach.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of this minimally invasive technique in a preclinical model.

Main Methods:

• Lung resection was performed on 11 beagle dogs using a transumbilical incision and an endoscopic stapler.
• Diaphragmatic incisions were repaired with a knotless suturing device.
• Postoperative monitoring included daily checks for infection, blood tests, and necropsy at 14 days.

Main Results:

• Successful transumbilical lung resection was achieved in 10 out of 11 animals, with a median operative time of 98 minutes.
• All animals survived without major complications, showing uneventful healing of the resection margin and diaphragm.
• No vital organ injury or intrathoracic infection was observed during necropsy.

Conclusions:

• A transumbilical approach for thoracic exploration and stapled lung resection is technically feasible.
• Primary suturing of the diaphragmatic incision provides effective wound closure.
• This technique presents a potential alternative to video-assisted thoracic surgery for select thoracic conditions.