Birmingham Intervention Tent Technique (BITT): A Technical Note

Objective We describe a novel and safe CT biopsy technique that we have termed the “Birmingham intervention tent technique (BITT).” This technique is ideal for biopsying osseous lesions where a direct approach is not possible due to difficult positioning. Methods The BITT uses a plastic surgical forceps clamp attached at an angle to the biopsy needle, creating a tent shape. The finger rings of the forceps is stabilized on the table. Results In our institution, we have already used the BITT successfully in over 10 cases. Conclusion The BITT is an inexpensive and reproducible technique.

How we do it: impacted oesophageal foreign body removal using a dilatation balloon

Background Ingested foreign bodies are a common presentation to paediatric ENT services. Depending on the site, these are usually managed with flexible or rigid oesophagoscopy and retrieval. This paper presents a novel technique for removing a hollow foreign body that could not be removed using conventional means. Method and results After rigid and flexible approaches failed, a guidewire was passed through the foreign body under fluoroscopic guidance and a dilatation balloon passed through the lumen of the object. Inflating the balloon allowed dilatation of the inflamed mucosa above and below the object, facilitating straightforward removal under traction. Conclusion This is a novel and reproducible technique that uses equipment readily available in tertiary referral centres. Employed in this context, the technique enabled removal of an impacted object surrounded by granulation tissue, and would be appropriate for other objects with a lumen.

Defining the limits of caesarean scar niche repair: new anatomical landmarks

Background Caesarean scar niche is increasingly being seen due to the rise in the number of caesarean sections worldwide. Indications and the ideal route for niche repair are still being researched. If the residual myometrium is less than 3 mm thick and potential fertility is needed, laparoscopy is the ideal surgical method for caesarean scar niche repair. The aim of this video presentation is to demonstrate techniques of identifying new anatomical landmarks during laparoscopic uterine niche repair. Results As seen in the video, Caesarean scar niche repair can be done in a step-by-step manner, with lateral bands serving as anatomical landmarks. Conclusions Lateral bands are a consistent anatomical landmark which identify the level and width of the uterine niche and thus simplify the laparoscopic repair making this a reproducible technique.

Outside-in drilling of femoral tunnel in primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction made easy and reproducible

This paper describes a simple, reproducible technique of placing the femoral guide wire perfectly in primary/ revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using a bull’s eye outside-in jig. Technique pearls and pitfalls are also mentioned.