A technical note on low cost rat laparoscopy an initial experience.

Manoel Luiz Ferreira,José Eduardo Ferreira Manso,José Marcus Raso Eulálio,Alberto Schanaider,Andrei Ferreira Costa Nicolau,Thales Penna De Carvalho,Paulo César Silva,Adrielle Rodas Fernandes,Julia Radicetti De Siqueira Paiva E Silva Silva

doi:10.1590/s0102-865020180090000014

Manoel Luiz Ferreira, José Eduardo Ferreira Manso + Show 7 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1590/s0102-865020180090000014

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Abstract

To evaluate a novel and adapted low-cost set model for laparoscopic surgery in rats. Nine Wistar rats underwent two different laparoscopic procedures, splenectomy (n=3) and distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy (n = 6), after assembling a low-cost set replacing the conventional one (monitor, micro camera, image processor, light source, laparoscope and insufflator). The new set included an Android Tablet 10.5 ", a 5mm USB Endoscope and semiautomatic sphygmomanometer monitor. The same surgeon performed the laparoscopic procedures. Total surgical time ranged from 36 to 60 minutes with a mean of 45.8 minutes. Three rats died during the distal pancreatic and splenectomy procedure (33.3%), due to respiratory failure (n = 1), uncontrolled abdominal hemorrhage (n=1) and iatrogenic gastric perforation (n = 1). We followed the other six rats (66.6%) for seven days with no further evidence of complications. The laparoscopic partial pancreatectomy and splenectomy can be performed with the novel low-cost set assembled in the present experimental study. Both specific training and skills development are required to validate more advanced laparoscopic procedures and achieve a desirable outcome.

Highlights

During the past 20 years, the development of new surgical techniques such as laparoscopy has improved the treatment of surgical patients by minimizing surgical trauma, accelerating postoperative recovery, and reducing the length of hospital stay[1]
Several complex open surgical techniques can be performed by minimally invasive surgery
The second animal died in the first 24 hours postoperatively and necropsy displayed a gastric perforation at the esophagogastric junction

Summary

Introduction

During the past 20 years, the development of new surgical techniques such as laparoscopy has improved the treatment of surgical patients by minimizing surgical trauma, accelerating postoperative recovery, and reducing the length of hospital stay[1]. Higher operating theatre cost is offset by shorter hospital stays, less medication requirements, shorter periods of convalescence, and faster return to work and to normal activity[2,3]. One of the most commonly used animals in the experimental surgical research is the Wistar rat. This specie is easy to handle and has a low maintenance cost. The high-cost of laparoscopic sets and the need for specific techniques for this specimen size are the main limiting points for the development of laparoscopic experimental procedures in rats[4,5]

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Conclusion