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How to use a fan retractor in laparoscopic total mesorectal excision
Edward A Cooper1, Matthew Morgan1, Daniel Kozman1
1Department of Colorectal Surgery, Bankstown Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
ANZ Journal of Surgery
|March 3, 2020
Summary
Laparoscopic total mesorectal excision is difficult due to instrument limits. An articulating fan retractor offers improved exposure and retraction, simplifying this challenging surgical dissection.
Area of Science:
- Colorectal Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Surgical Instrumentation
Background:
- Laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (TME) presents significant exposure challenges.
- Limited instrument articulation can hinder achieving the optimal dissection plane.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of an articulating fan retractor for laparoscopic TME.
- To assess if this instrument improves surgical exposure in a technically demanding procedure.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive report on the use of an articulating fan retractor during laparoscopic TME.
- Qualitative assessment of instrument performance and ease of use.
Main Results:
- The articulating fan retractor provides enhanced visualization and retraction.
- It simplifies the dissection of the total mesorectal excision plane.
- The instrument is cost-effective and readily available.
Conclusions:
- An articulating fan retractor is a valuable tool for improving exposure during laparoscopic TME.
- Its use can overcome instrument limitations in this challenging surgical procedure.
