Duhamel pull-through assisted by transrectal port: a hybrid natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery approach

Abstract

One of the latest surgical innovations is natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES). We hypothesize that the principles of NOTES could be applied to the laparoscopic Duhamel procedure. Between March 2008 and May 2010, 3 children underwent the laparoscopic Duhamel procedure assisted by transrectal NOTES. Three 5-mm transabdominal trocars were combined with a 12-mm transrectal trocar. We were able to safely apply the principles of NOTES, improving the performance of laparoscopic Duhamel pull-through using current instruments and technology. This new approach avoids the need of an extra transabdominal 12-mm trocar for the endoscopic stapler, allows an easier creation of a smaller rectal stump, and offers the possibility of an extra working port. This hybrid concept can be seen as a transition into the emerging field of NOTES in colorectal surgery.