Use of a soft silicone tube guide for an automatic suture device in video-assisted lung lobectomy

Abstract

The frequency of using mechanical stapling for bronchus and vessels has increased for anatomic lung resection since video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery was introduced. However, when we staple vessels, bronchi, and lobes with an automatic suture device, the passage of the endostapler (Endo-GIA Universal, Tyco Healthcare) through them is occasionally hampered. A Penrose drain has been used to guide the tip of the endostapler. However, there are still some problems. At first, the Penrose drain is so soft that we cannot sometimes guide the endostapler. Accidental injuries of vessels with the tip of the endostapler can occur after removing the Penrose drain. We introduce a new instrument made with a soft silicone tube to guide an endostapler more safely and quickly.