New alternative for wound protection in laparoscopic colectomy

Area of Science:

• Surgical Oncology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Medical Device Innovation

Background:

• Laparoscopic colectomy is widely used for colon surgery.
• A significant concern is the high rate of cancer recurrence at instrument insertion sites.
• Minimizing tumor cell or pathogen spread during surgery is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel protective device for surgical isolation during laparoscopic colectomy.
• To reduce the risk of cancer and surgical site infection implantation.
• To present a cost-effective and easily implementable solution.

Main Methods:

• The device is constructed intraoperatively using a sterile polyethylene plastic cover and a 20 Fr. urethral catheter.
• It acts as a conduit to protect the fiber optic cable and isolate the specimen.
• Assembly and intra-abdominal placement times were recorded.

Main Results:

• The device was successfully used in six laparoscopic colectomies (3 colon adenocarcinoma, 3 intestinal endometriosis).
• It effectively prevented specimen contact with the abdominal wall, reducing implantation and infection risks.
• Good visualization and pneumoperitoneum maintenance were achieved with low cost (approx. US$10) and rapid assembly (avg. 66s).

Conclusions:

• The protective device is feasible and effective for laparoscopic colectomy.
• It requires no special training and can be fabricated by the surgical team.
• This innovation is suitable for institutions with limited resources.