Preclinical cadaveric study of transanal endoscopic da Vinci® surgery

Background: Single-port platforms are increasingly being used for transanal surgery and may be associated with a shorter learning curve than transanal endoscopic microsurgery. However, these procedures remain technically challenging, and robotic technology could overcome some of the limitations and increase intraluminal manoeuvrability. An initial experimental experience with transanal endoscopic da Vinci(®) surgery (TEdS) using a glove port on human cadavers is reported.

Methods: After initial dry laboratory experiments, the feasibility of TEdS and ideal set-up were further evaluated in human cadavers. For transanal access a glove port was constructed on-table by using a circular anal dilator, a standard wound retractor and a surgical glove. A da Vinci(®) Si HD system was used in combination with the glove port for transanal endoscopic resections.

Results: It was possible to perform all necessary tasks to complete a full-thickness excision and closure of the rectal wall, with cadavers in both prone and supine positions. The stable magnified view, combined with the EndoWrist(®) technology of the robotic instruments, made every task straightforward. Intraluminal manoeuvrability could be improved further by intersecting the robotic instruments. The glove port proved to be very reliable and the inherent flexibility of the glove facilitated docking of the robotic arms in a narrow confined space.

Conclusion: Using a reliable and universally available glove port, TEdS was feasible and a preferred set-up was determined. Further clinical trials will be necessary to assess the safety and efficacy of this technique.