Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 4, 2026

Mixed Reality Assisted Radical Endoscopic Thyroidectomy
Published on: January 31, 2025
Upgraded bidirectional approach video-assisted neck surgery (BAVANS) using a rigid endoscope with variable viewing
Akihiro Nakajo1, Koji Minami2, Yoshiaki Shinden2
1Department of Surgical Oncology, Digestive Surgery, Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Kagoshima University, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima, 890-0075, Japan. anakajo@m.kufm.kagoshima-u.ac.jp.
Abstract:
In 2011, we developed bidirectional approach video-assisted neck surgery (BAVANS) for endoscopic thyroid cancer surgery. BAVANS combines two different approach pathways at 180 degrees to the cervical lesion for endoscopic thyroidectomy and complete cervical lymphadenectomy. We reported previously that the cranio-caudal approach is extremely useful for endoscopic complete lymph node dissection around the trachea. In 2014, we upgraded the initial BAVANS for better maneuverability and quality of lymph node dissection. A new high-tech rigid endoscope with a variable viewing direction (EndoCAMeleon™), has enabled us to reduce the camera port in the anterior neck while keeping the easy maneuverability and the same quality of central lymph node dissection (LND) as with the initial BAVANS. Endoscopic thyroid cancer surgery is now evolving concurrently with new visual technology.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
Endoscopic Procedures III: Video Capsule Endoscopy

