With the realized benefits of decreased post-operative pain, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster recovery time when compared to open surgery, enthusiasm for minimally invasive esophagectomy has increased worldwide. Several groups use lateral decubitus positioning for thoracoscopic mobilization of the esophagus, while some have suggested that prone positioning may minimize the number of technical […]
Introduction: Zenker’s diverticulum is a known cause for dysphagia and is treated usually by resection or diverticulopexy through a neck incision. In recent years an endoscopic per-oral method has been described. A cohort of patients was treated and long-term follow up was obtained.Materials and Methods: All patients presented with the diagnosis of Zenker’s diverticulum were […]
BACKGROUND:Due to improved ergonomics and dexterity, robotic surgery is supposed to be very easy to perfom for all individuals and no special premises should be necessary. We have tested the above hypothesis by measering IQ-elements, computer-gaming-skills, general dexterity with chop sticks and evaluating laparoscopic experience in correlation to the performance with the da Vinci robot® […]
Background: The assessment of resident skill in laparoscopic surgery under actual clinical conditions is a difficult, but increasingly mandated process. We sought to demonstrate the utility of a new computer-based assessment tool to capture predictable incremental increases in resident skill over time. Methods: Using a network-based database instrument, performance of a group of 6 residents […]
For optimal visualization during laparoscopic gastroesophageal procedures, the left lobe of the liver has to be mobilized superiorly to the anterior abdominal wall. To accomplish this task, we have traditionally utilized an externally placed stainless steel retractor. Retraction is either performed manually, or by a mechanical arm that is secured to the side rail of […]