Uniportal thoracoscopic apical (S1) segmentectomy of the right upper lobe via an anterior approach

An apical (S1) segmentectomy of the right upper lobe is considered one of the most challenging procedures among the uncommon pulmonary segmentectomies. However, we consider that the uniportal thoracoscopic approach, for which the single port access is located at the 4th intercostal space of the anterior axillary line, makes this challenging operation easier because we can recognize any intrathoracic vessels and bronchi that should be divided just under the incision. Moreover, it is easy to insert a stapler to divide an intersegmental plane between S1 and the other segments because of the good surgical view provided by this approach. In this video tutorial, we describe the successful results of a patient undergoing uniportal thoracoscopic S1 segmentectomy of the right lower lobe and explain the nuances of performing it.

Comparison of a single-access glove port with a SILS™ port in a surgical simulator model using MISTELS

Background Recent advances in laparoscopy both in human and veterinary medicine have looked at means of being less invasive by using single-port access surgery as opposed to multiport access surgery. The glove port has gained popularity as a cost-effective alternative to commercially available single-port access devices. The primary aim of this study was to compare the glove port to the SILS™ port in a simulator model using the first two MISTELS (McGill inanimate system for training and evaluation of laparoscopic skills) tasks (peg transfer and pattern cutting). Methods Twenty-two novices were enrolled in this experimental study. Each participant had 60 min to practise both MISTELS tasks using two-port laparoscopy. Thereafter participants performed both tasks using the glove and SILS™ port with scores being calculated based on task completion time and errors. Higher scores were indicative of better performance. Participants were assigned into two groups with the starting order of the single ports being randomly selected. A self-evaluation questionnaire with three questions was completed by each participant after testing, rating each port. Results Significantly (p < 0.05) higher scores were achieved using the glove port compared to the SILS™ port when performing both tasks. The glove port was subjectively evaluated as easier to use with more manoeuvrability of the instruments than the SILS™ port. Implications of the study The glove port’s improved manoeuvrability and ease of use make it a cost-effective alternative to the SILS™ port, for use in single-port laparoscopic veterinary surgery.