Development of a New Method and Device for Adaptation and Suture of Tissues During Transoral Surgery: In Vitro and Cadaver Experiments

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to present cadaver and model experiments of a technique using an instrument that may overcome the problems of achieving adaptation and suture of mucous membrane and other tissues during transoral surgery in narrow anatomical circumstances. STUDY DESIGN: The following interventions were carried out on cadavers: adaptation and suture of mucous membrane by uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP); release and anteroposition of the epiglottis and fixation to the vallecula or to the base of the tongue; denudation and closing the lumen of the larynx; release and retroposition and fixation of the epiglottis to the posterior part of the larynx; creation, adaptation, and suturing of mucosal flaps in the posterior part of the larynx; craniolateral mobilization and fixation of the vocal cord; submucous excision of excess tissues; and adaptation and suture of the edges of the mucosa. RESULTS: The safety and reduced need for microclips in surgeries in these areas can be accomplished by introducing the Ligature-Suture device, which makes it possible to pass a suture under the tissues with a single movement. CONCLUSIONS: This new technique and instrument for the Ligature-Suture device has the potential to be applied successfully in other fields of surgery. The main advantages of this technique are its simplicity and safety.