Nothing to acknowledge.

This protocol follows the guidelines of the University of Pittsburg Medical Center human research ethics comittee (Institutional Review Board: PRO15040497)
1. Preoperative workup and selection
<ol>
	<li>Check the triphasic CT scan (i.e., chest, abdomen, and pelvis with the primary imaging modality) to evaluate the extent of disease, rule out metastasis, and delineate aberrant or anomalous arterial vasculature.&#160;</li>
	<li>Perform EUS and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ER...

<ol>
	<li>Tseng, J. F., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+learning+curve+in+pancreatic+surgery.">The learning curve in pancreatic surgery.</a> Surgery. 141, 456-463 (2007).</li><li>Cameron, J. L., He, J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Two+Thousand+Consecutive+Pancreaticoduodenectomies.">Two Thousand Consecutive Pancreaticoduodenectomies.</a> Journal of the American College of Surgeons. 220, 530-536 (2015).</li><li>Birkmeyer, J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Effect+of+hospital+volume+on+in-hospital+mortality+with+pancreaticoduodenectomy.">Effect of hospital volume on in-hospital mortality with pancreaticoduodenectomy.</a> Surgery. 125, 250-256 (1999).</li><li>Cirocchi, R., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+systematic+review+on+robotic+pancreaticoduodenectomy.">A systematic review on robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy.</a> Surgical Oncology. 22, 238-246 (2013).</li><li>Giulianotti, P. C., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Robotics+in+general+surgery:+personal+experience+in+a+large+community+hospital.">Robotics in general surgery: personal experience in a large community hospital.</a> Archives of surgery. 138, 777-784 (2003).</li><li>Wang, S. -. E., Shyr, B. -. U., Chen, S. -. C., Shyr, Y. -. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Comparison+between+robotic+and+open+pancreaticoduodenectomy+with+modified+Blumgart+pancreaticojejunostomy:+A+propensity+score-matched+study.">Comparison between robotic and open pancreaticoduodenectomy with modified Blumgart pancreaticojejunostomy: A propensity score-matched study.</a> Surgery. 164 (6), 1162-1167 (2018).</li><li>Magge, D., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Robotic+pancreatoduodenectomy+at+an+experienced+institution+is+not+associated+with+an+increased+risk+of+post-pancreatic+hemorrhage.">Robotic pancreatoduodenectomy at an experienced institution is not associated with an increased risk of post-pancreatic hemorrhage.</a> HPB. 20, 448-455 (2018).</li><li>Zureikat, A. H., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Minimally+invasive+hepatopancreatobiliary+surgery+in+North+America:+an+ACS-NSQIP+analysis+of+predictors+of+conversion+for+laparoscopic+and+robotic+pancreatectomy+and+hepatectomy.">Minimally invasive hepatopancreatobiliary surgery in North America: an ACS-NSQIP analysis of predictors of conversion for laparoscopic and robotic pancreatectomy and hepatectomy.</a> The official journal of Hepato-Pancreato-Billiary Association. 19, 595-602 (2017).</li><li>Zureikat, A. H., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+Multi-institutional+Comparison+of+Perioperative+Outcomes+of+Robotic+and+Open+Pancreaticoduodenectomy.">A Multi-institutional Comparison of Perioperative Outcomes of Robotic and Open Pancreaticoduodenectomy.</a> Annals of Surgery. 264, 640-649 (2016).</li><li>McMillan, M. T., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+Propensity+Score-Matched+Analysis+of+Robotic+vs+Open+Pancreatoduodenectomy+on+Incidence+of+Pancreatic+Fistula.">A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis of Robotic vs Open Pancreatoduodenectomy on Incidence of Pancreatic Fistula.</a> JAMA Surgery. 152 (4), 327-335 (2016).</li><li>Nguyen, K., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Technical+Aspects+of+Robotic-Assisted+Pancreaticoduodenectomy+(RAPD).">Technical Aspects of Robotic-Assisted Pancreaticoduodenectomy (RAPD).</a> Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery. 15, 870-875 (2011).</li><li>Zureikat, A. H., Nguyen, K. T., Bartlett, D. L., Zeh, H. J., Moser, J. A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Robotic-Assisted+Major+Pancreatic+Resection+and+Reconstruction.">Robotic-Assisted Major Pancreatic Resection and Reconstruction.</a> Archives of Surgery. 146, 256-261 (2011).</li><li>Knab, M. L., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Evolution+of+a+Novel+Robotic+Training+Curriculum+in+a+Complex+General+Surgical+Oncology+Fellowship.">Evolution of a Novel Robotic Training Curriculum in a Complex General Surgical Oncology Fellowship.</a> Annals in Surgical Oncology. 25 (12), 3445-3452 (2018).</li><li>Wu, J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Recurrent+GNAS+mutations+define+an+unexpected+pathway+for+pancreatic+cyst+development.">Recurrent GNAS mutations define an unexpected pathway for pancreatic cyst development.</a> Science Translational Medicine. 3, 92 (2011).</li><li>Singhi, A. D., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=American+Gastroenterological+Association+guidelines+are+inaccurate+in+detecting+pancreatic+cysts+with+advanced+neoplasia:+a+clinicopathologic+study+of+225+patients+with+supporting+molecular+data.">American Gastroenterological Association guidelines are inaccurate in detecting pancreatic cysts with advanced neoplasia: a clinicopathologic study of 225 patients with supporting molecular data.</a> Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. 83, 1107-1117 (2016).</li><li>Tanaka, M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Revisions+of+international+consensus+Fukuoka+guidelines+for+the+management+of+IPMN+of+the+pancreas.">Revisions of international consensus Fukuoka guidelines for the management of IPMN of the pancreas.</a> Pancreatology. 17, 738-753 (2017).</li><li>Malka, D., Castan, F., Conroy, T. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=FOLFIRINOX+Adjuvant+Therapy+for+Pancreatic+Cancer.">FOLFIRINOX Adjuvant Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer.</a> New England Journal of Medicine. 380, 1187-1189 (2019).</li><li>Nassour, I., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Robotic+Versus+Laparoscopic+Pancreaticoduodenectomy:+a+NSQIP+Analysis.">Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Pancreaticoduodenectomy: a NSQIP Analysis.</a> Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery Official Journal of the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract. 21, 1784-1792 (2017).</li><li>Gabriel, E., Thirunavukarasu, P., Attwood, K., Nurkin, S. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=National+disparities+in+minimally+invasive+surgery+for+pancreatic+tumors.">National disparities in minimally invasive surgery for pancreatic tumors.</a> Surgical Endoscopy. 31, 398-409 (2017).</li><li>Konstantinidis, I. T., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Robotic+total+pancreatectomy+with+splenectomy:+technique+and+outcomes.">Robotic total pancreatectomy with splenectomy: technique and outcomes.</a> Surgical Endoscopy. 32, 3691-3696 (2018).</li><li>Kornaropoulos, M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Total+robotic+pancreaticoduodenectomy:+a+systematic+review+of+the+literature.">Total robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy: a systematic review of the literature.</a> Surgical Endoscopy. 31, 4382-4392 (2017).</li><li>Boone, B. A., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Assessment+of+Quality+Outcomes+for+Robotic+Pancreaticoduodenectomy:+Identification+of+the+Learning+Curve.">Assessment of Quality Outcomes for Robotic Pancreaticoduodenectomy: Identification of the Learning Curve.</a> JAMA Surgery. 150, 416-422 (2015).</li><li>Fisher, W. E., Hodges, S. E., Wu, M. -. F. F., Hilsenbeck, S. G., Brunicardi, F. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Assessment+of+the+learning+curve+for+pancreaticoduodenectomy.">Assessment of the learning curve for pancreaticoduodenectomy.</a> American Journal of Surgery. 203, 684-690 (2012).</li><li>Hmidt, C., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Effect+of+hospital+volume,+surgeon+experience,+and+surgeon+volume+on+patient+outcomes+after+pancreaticoduodenectomy:+a+single-institution+experience.">Effect of hospital volume, surgeon experience, and surgeon volume on patient outcomes after pancreaticoduodenectomy: a single-institution experience.</a> Archives of Surgery. 145, 634-640 (2010).</li><li>Zureikat, A. H., Hogg, M. E., Zeh, H. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+Utility+of+the+Robot+in+Pancreatic+Resections.">The Utility of the Robot in Pancreatic Resections.</a> Advances in Surgery. 48, 77-95 (2014).</li></ol>

With advances in the surgical technology, laparoscopic and robot-assisted surgeries are being increasingly used in gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary procedures. Conventional laparoscopy is associated with benefits over open surgery for many procedures. However, inherent limitations such as decreased surgical dexterity, suboptimal ergonomics, lack of wristed instruments, and 2-D visualization, have limited its dissemination to complex gastrointestinal operations such as PD.&#160;
Contrary to l...

Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is a complex operation that combines a challenging resection and a meticolous reconstruction. During its early inception, the traditional open approach was frought with high complication rates and a mortality rate approaching 25%. In the last three decades, improvements in the surgical technique and perioperative care led to corresponding improvements in outcomes, with a reduction in mortality to less than 5%, especially at high volume centers1,2,3. Despite this, morbidity remains substantial. With advancements in surgical technology, minimally invasive surgical approaches through laparoscopy or robot-assisted surgery have emerged in an effort to curb this morbidity. Since its first report in 2003, interest in robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) has grown by pancreatic surgeons4,5. Inherent advantages of the robotic platform, including three-dimensional (3D) vision, wristed instruments, and improved ergonomics, allow the surgeon to recapitulate principles of open PD (OPD) in a minimally invasive manner, including safe oncologic dissection, hemostasis, and meticulous reconstruction4,6,7,8,9,10. The goal of this manuscript is to provide the detailed steps of an RPD performed at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC)11,12,13.
In the presented case study, a 42-year-old female with a previous history of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN), initially presented with acute pancreatitis. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen revealed a 3.3 cm pancreatic head lesion with associated dilatation of the main pancreatic duct (Figure 1A,B), with a mixed type IPMN. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) confirmed the existence of an irregular, heterogenous cyst measuring 3.1 x 2.0 cm in the pancreatic head with mixed solid and cystic components and main PD duct dilation (Figure 1C). EUS cytology revealed the presence of atypical cells with no high-risk molecular mutations14,15. Biochemical workup including serum tumor markers were normal, with CA19-9 12 U/mL. Based on the Fukuoka criteria, this patient was recommended to have a PD and was deemed a suitable candidate for the robotic approach16.

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width:973px;" width="972">
	<colgroup>
		<col span="2" />
		<col />
		<col />
	</colgroup>
	<tbody>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">3-0 V-Loc sutures</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Medtronic (Minneapolis, MN)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">VLOCMo614</td>
			<td style="width:273px;">Barbed Absorable Suture</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">4-5 Fr Freeman Pancreatic Flexi-Stent</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Hobbs Medical (Stafford Springs, CT)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">6542, 6552</td>
			<td>Pancreatic Duct Stent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">5-0 PDS (polydiosxanone)</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Ethicon (Somerville, NJ)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">D10063</td>
			<td>Synthetic Absorbable Suture</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">Cad&#237;ere forceps</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">470049</td>
			<td>Surgical Robot Instrument</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">Da Vinci Si</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;"></td>
			<td>Surgical Robot</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">Da Vinci Xi</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;"></td>
			<td>Surgical Robot</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">Endo Clip 10 mm Applier</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Covidien (Dublin, Ireland)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">176619</td>
			<td>Laparoscopic Titanium Clip Applier</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="63">
			<td height="63" style="height:63px;width:291px;">Endo GIA 45 mm Curved Tip Articulating Vascular Stapler with Tri-Stapler Technology</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Covidien (Dublin, Ireland)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">EGIA45CTAVM</td>
			<td>Laparoscopic Surgical Stapler</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="42">
			<td height="42" style="height:42px;width:291px;">Endo GIA 60 mm Articulating Stapler with Tri-Stapler Technology</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Covidien (Dublin, Ireland)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">EGIA60AMT</td>
			<td>Laparoscopic Surgical Stapler</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="63">
			<td height="63" style="height:63px;width:291px;">Endo GIA 60 mm Curved Tip Articulating Vascular Stapler with Tri-Stapler Technology</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Covidien (Dublin, Ireland)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">EGIA60CTAVM</td>
			<td>Laparoscopic Surgical Stapler</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">EndoCatch Gold 10 mm Specimen Pouch</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Medtronic (Minneapolis, MN)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">173050G</td>
			<td>Specimen Extraction Bag</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">EndoCatch II 15 mm Specimen Pouch</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Medtronic (Minneapolis, MN)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">173049</td>
			<td>Specimen Extraction Bag</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">Fenestrated bipolar forceps</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">470205</td>
			<td>Surgical Robot Instrument</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">GelPOINT Mini Advanced Access Platform</td>
			<td>Applied Medical (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">CNGL3</td>
			<td>Laparoscopic Abdominal Access Platform</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">Large needle driver</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">470006</td>
			<td>Surgical Robot Instrument</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">Large SutureCut needle driver</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">470296</td>
			<td>Surgical Robot Instrument</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="42">
			<td height="42" style="height:42px;width:291px;">LigaSure Blunt Tip Laparoscopic Sealer/Divider</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Medtronic (Minneapolis, MN)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">LF1844</td>
			<td>Laparoscopic Bioplar Device</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">Mediflex liver retractor</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Mediflex (Islandia NY)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;"></td>
			<td>Laparoscopic Liver Retractor</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">Monopolar curved scissors</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">470179</td>
			<td>Surgical Robot Instrument</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">Permanent cautery hook</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">470183</td>
			<td>Surgical Robot Instrument</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:291px;">ProGrasp forceps</td>
			<td style="width:291px;">Intuitive (Sunnyvale, CA)</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">470093</td>
			<td>Surgical Robot Instrument</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

technical detail for robot assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy

Since its first report in 2003, robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) has gained popularity among pancreatic surgeons. Inherent advantages of the robotic platform, including three-dimensional vision, wristed instruments, and improved ergonomics, allow the surgeon to recapitulate the principles of open pancreatoduodenectomy allowing safe oncologic dissection, hemostasis, and meticulous reconstruction. Over the course of the past decade, significant strides have been achieved in outlining the safety, feasibility, and learning curve of the robotic Whipple. When performed by high volume pancreatic surgeons experienced in RPD, recent comparative effectiveness studies show potential advantages compared to the open technique, including reductions in hospital stay and morbidity. National data also show reductions in conversion rates compared to its laparoscopic counterpart. Although long-term oncologic data are still needed, short-term oncologic surrogates of margin resection and lymph node harvest suggest no compromise in oncologic outcomes. As pancreatic surgeons increasingly integrate robotics into their practice, proficiency-based training and credentialing will be necessary for the safe application and dissemination of RPD. Here, we provide the detailed steps of a robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy performed at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.&#160;

In the representative case, the total operative time was 225 min with an estimated blood loss (EBL) of 50 mL (Table 1). The patient was admitted to the surgical ward. Her postoperative course followed the UPMC institutional ERAS pathway. We routinely assess JP amylase at POD#1 and #3 to assess for pancreatic fistula and practice early drain removal on POD 3-5 when possible. The patient&#8217;s JP amylase levels were 403 U/L and 68 U/L, respectively. Therefore, the drain was removed on POD#3. The patient ...

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Technical Detail for Robot Assisted Pancreaticoduodenectomy

The following manuscript details a stepwise approach to the robot-assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy performed at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Since its first report in 2003, robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) has gained popularity among pancreatic surgeons. Inherent advantages of the robotic ...

The manuscript describes a technique for robotic-assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy. The represented patient is a 42-year-old female with a prior history of IPMN, who presented with an acute onset of pancreatitis. Diagnostic imaging including CT scan, and endoscopic ultrasound revealed a complex septated heterogenous mass measuring 3.3 centimeters.Biochemical workup was normal. She was recommended for robotic RAPD. Patient is positioned in a supine position on a split-leg table with right arm tucked, and pressure points padded.The operating table is turned 45 degrees to accommodate for the Si robot. Xi robot can be docked from the side. The robotic and assistant ports are placed in correspondence with the figure.The liver retractor is placed to the leftmost lateral port. The liver retractor works best if it retracts the gallbladder, and lifts the liver superiorly during the entirety of the resection. The resection phase is initiated with the entrance into the lesser sac.The access into the lesser sac through the greater omentum below the gastroepiploic pedicle is performed. The assistant provides a gentle caudal counter-retraction. The dissection is carried along the greater curvature towards the pylorus.The colon is fully mobilized off the duodenum. The gastroepiploic pedicle is preserved, and is not transected at this point. Kocherization of the duodenum is performed.The lateral fibers of duodenum are grasped and transected. The bedside assistant provides a gentle medial counter-retraction of the duodenum. Mobilization of the duodenum including its third and fourth portion is carried to the ligament of Treitz.Dynamic anterior and cranial retraction of the duodenum with A3 is key to an excellent exposure. Extensive kocherization allows for full visualization of the inferior vena cava, insertion of the left renal vein, and the aorta. The complete release of ligament of Treitz allows for exposure of proximal jejunum.The jejunum is then extracted through the ligament of Treitz defect into the right superior colic upper quadrant. Next, the jejunum is measured out approximately 10 centimeters distal to the ligament of Treitz. The mesenteric vessels are taking with a vessel sealing device.Utilizing a linear vascular stapler, the jejunum is transected. Linearization of the duodenum is performed in a sequential ligation of the mesenteric vessels of the proximal jejunum up to the uncinate process. The pars flaccida is open, and the care is taken not to enter the aberrant left hepatic artery.The transection point of the stomach is taken approximately five centimeters proximal to the pylorus. The right gastroepiploic vessels are ligated utilizing the vessel sealer device. The stomach is then transected utilizing a thick linear stapler load.The right gastric artery is ligated with laparoscopic titanium vascular 10 millimeter clips close to its takeoff from the proper hepatic artery. It is then ligated utilizing the blunt tip vessel sealing device. A3 grabs the distal gastric staple line, and retracts the specimen laterally and inferiorly putting the common hepatic artery, and the porta hepatis under tension.The dissection continues through the superior border of the pancreas, and into the porta hepatis. The common hepatic artery lymph node is identified and resected. It is retrieved with a 10 millimeter laparoscopic specimen retrieval bag, hence, sent for permanent pathologic analysis.This allows for full visualization of the gastroduodenal artery. The gastroduodenal artery is identified at the takeoff from the common hepatic artery. The robotic hook cautery is utilized to fully circumferentially dissect the gastroduodenal artery.A vessel loop is passed around the GDA. The GDA is transected with a vascular stapler. The proximal stump is reinforced with a laparoscopic titanium vascular 10 millimeter clips.The portal vein is dissected for a two-to-three centimeters in the cephalic direction. The plane between the common bile duct, and the portal vein is identified and developed posteriorly. The common bile duct is transected with a 60 millimeter curved tip vascular linear stapler above the level of the biliary stent.The lateral border of the portal vein is further dissected utilizing the robotic hook cautery. The superior pancreaticoduodenal artery is often encountered, and is ligated utilizing the assistant's blunt tip vessel sealing device. The superior to inferior dissection of the portal vein continues to the superior border of the pancreas.This dissection allows for exposure of the superior tunnel. A3 grabs and retracts the distal gastric staple line laterally and cephalic to put the gastroepiploic vein on a stretch as it enters the interior SMV. The fatty tissue near the pancreatic inferior border is opened utilizing the electric cautery.The SMV is now visualized. The assistant provides gentle dissection to make the inferior tunnel. The right gastroepiploic vein is traced to its insertion in the SMV.It is dissected, vessel loop is placed, and is ligated utilizing assistant's blunt tip vessel sealing device. A3 now retracts the specimen at the distal gastric staple line laterally to put the pancreatic neck on a stretch. The pancreatic parenchyma is transected utilizing the monopolar curved scissors with electric cautery.Care is taken to identify the main duct. The assistant provides an anterior lift of the pancreas off the SMV during the parenchymal transection. The main pancreatic duct is transected utilizing scissors without electric cautery.Four to five French pancreatic duct stent is placed into the main duct to ensure its identification. The remaining pancreatic parenchyma is transected utilizing electric cautery. This portion of the resection requires slow, meticulous dissection as significant hemorrhage may occur in the absence of operator precision.The key to head an uncinate dissection during this phase is A3, which provides superior and lateral retraction of the specimen. A3 is dynamic during the resection, and requires frequent assessment of its placement. The uncinate process consists of three distinct layers.The first layer consists of filamentous fibers between the SMV portal vein, and the pancreatic head, and uncinate process. A1 is replaced with hook cautery which is mainly utilized for its dissection. The second layer consists of first jejunal vein, the vein of Belcher, and the uncinate branches.A1 and assistant blunt tip vessel sealing device is mainly utilized for dissection and ligation. The third layer is the SMA retroperitoneale margin. The SMV and portal vein is rotated immediately with A2 by the assistant.The assistant's vessel sealing device is utilized for this ligation. Pancreaticojejunostomy is performed in a two-layer, end-to-side, duct to mucosa, in a modified Blumgart technique. A3 is often utilized to grab the previously placed sutures to provide cranial retraction and exposure.Two all-silk trans-pancreatic horizontal mattress sutures are placed to secure the pancreatic parenchyma to the jejunum. Three sutures are placed, one above which is shown here, one below, and one straddling. All three sutures are tied, and the needles are kept on the suture.Care is taken when tying the middle suture which straddles the main pancreatic duct to avoid accidental ductal ligation. The pancreatic duct stent is typically utilized to interrogate the patency of the duct. A1 is then switched to a monopolar scissors which is utilized to perform the enterotomy.This is then replaced to the needle driver. Interrupted 5-0 PDS sutures are utilized to approximate the jejunum mucosa to the pancreatic duct. A minimum of six sutures can always be placed.More sutures can be placed if the duct size is larger. The pancreatic duct stent is then fit through the enterotomy, prior to the placement of the anterior 5-0 PDS sutures. Once the anastomosis is complete, the same 3-0 silk sutures that were previously utilized to place the posterior layers are re-utilized for anterior layer of the pancreaticojejunostomy.Hepaticojejunostomy is performed approximately 10 centimeters distal to the pancreaticojejunostomy. The anastomosis is performed in a single layer, either in interrupted or running fashion. A1 with monopolar curved scissors is used to transect a common bile duct staple line.The bile grasping forceps are utilized to bring the jejunum closer to the common bile duct. A1 is re-armed with monopolar curved scissors, and is utilized to make the enterotomy. The anastomosis is performed using 5-0 PDS sutures in an interrupted fashion for ducts with diameter less than one centimeter.For larger ducts, two running 4-0 barbed sutures are utilized in a single layer continuous fashion. For interrupted anastomosis, the posterior sutures are first placed and tied. For ducts less than one centimeter in size, we often employ a four-to-five French biliary stent to keep the patency of the anastomosis.Next, additional 5-0 PDS sutures are placed to complete the anterior anastomosis. Once all the sutures are placed, the sutures are tied, and the anastomosis is complete. The gastrojejunostomy is a hand-sewn, anti-colic end-to-side isoperistaltic anastomosis.Two, 3-0 silk marking stitches are placed on the jejunum approximately 40 to 60 centimeters distal to the hepaticojejunostomy. This marks the proximal and distal, denoting afferent and efferent limbs of the jejunum. A1 and A2 are replaced with bar grasping forceps.The laparoscopic assistant reflects the omentum and the mesocolon cephalad which allows for the surgeon to locate the neoduodenum. The distal jejunum is then reduced, and placed back into infracolic compartment. The two marking stitches are identified, and the jejunum is brought in an anti-colic, isoperistaltic fashion up to the stomach.The A1 and A2 are replaced with large dual-functioning needle drivers. An interrupted outer layer with two all-silk sutures are placed. The most cephalus suture is held by A3, and utilized as a retraction suture.A1 is replaced with monopolar curved scissors. This is utilized to transect a gastric staple line. The scissors is also utilized to place the enterotomy in the jejunum.The anastomosis is performed utilizing two, 3-0 barbed sutures in a running canal fashion. Interrupted outer layer with 2-0 silk sutures are placed to complete the gastrojejunostomy. Following the completion of the anastomosis, a 19-French round channel drain is placed anterior to the pancreaticojejunostomy and hepaticojejunostomy.A false form ligament flap is utilized to cover the GDS stump. The instruments are removed and the robot is undocked. The fascia and incisions are closed in layers.The total operative time was 225 minutes, estimated blood loss was 25 mLs, there was no post-operative complications. The final pathology revealed invasive moderately-differentiated adenocarcinoma arising from branch duct IPMN. The manuscript provides the detailed steps of a robotic-assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy, as performed at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

technical-detail-for-robot-assisted-pancreaticoduodenectomy

Research

JoVE Journal

Medicine

Technical Aspects of the Mouse Aortocaval Fistula

Technical aspects of creating an arteriovenous fistula in the mouse are discussed. Under general anesthesia, an abdominal incision is made, and the aorta and inferior vena cava (IVC) are exposed. The proximal infrarenal aorta and the distal aorta are dissected for clamp placement and needle puncture, respectively. Special attention is paid to avoid dissection between the aorta and the IVC. After clamping the aorta, a 25 G needle is used to puncture both walls of the aorta into the IVC. The surrounding connective tissue is used for hemostatic compression. Successful creation of the AVF will show pulsatile arterial blood flow in the IVC. Further confirmation of successful AVF can be achieved by post-operative Doppler ultrasound.

The goal is to produce an arteriovenous fistula that is simple and reproducible. This method does not use sutures or glue adhesive. Therefore the samples can be used with the least amount of foreign materials for analysis.

Technical aspects of creating an arteriovenous fistula in the mouse are discussed. Under general anesthesia, an abdominal incision is made, and the aorta ...

Accuracy in Dental Medicine, A New Way to Measure Trueness and Precision

Reference scanners are used in dental medicine to verify a lot of procedures. The main interest is to verify impression methods as they serve as a base for dental restorations. The current limitation of many reference scanners is the lack of accuracy scanning large objects like full dental arches, or the limited possibility to assess detailed tooth surfaces. A new reference scanner, based on focus variation scanning technique, was evaluated with regards to highest local and general accuracy. A specific scanning protocol was tested to scan original tooth surface from dental impressions. Also, different model materials were verified. The results showed a high scanning accuracy of the reference scanner with a mean deviation of 5.3 &#177; 1.1 &#181;m for trueness and 1.6 &#177; 0.6 &#181;m for precision in case of full arch scans. Current dental impression methods showed much higher deviations (trueness: 20.4 &#177; 2.2 &#181;m, precision: 12.5 &#177; 2.5 &#181;m) than the internal scanning accuracy of the reference scanner. Smaller objects like single tooth surface can be scanned with an even higher accuracy, enabling the system to assess erosive and abrasive tooth surface loss. The reference scanner can be used to measure differences for a lot of dental research fields. The different magnification levels combined with a high local and general accuracy can be used to assess changes of single teeth or restorations up to full arch changes.

Accuracy is a major demand in dental medicine. To verify accuracy, reference scanners are needed. This article presents a new reference scanner with an adjusted scanning method to acquire a broad variety of dental morphologies with high trueness and precision.

Reference scanners are used in dental medicine to verify a lot of procedures. The main interest is to verify impression methods as they serve as a base ...

A Novel Murine Model of Arteriovenous Fistula Failure: The Surgical Procedure in Detail

The arteriovenous fistula (AVF) still suffers from a high number of failures caused by insufficient remodeling and intimal hyperplasia from which the exact pathophysiology remains unknown. In order to unravel the pathophysiology a murine model of AVF-failure was developed in which the configuration of the anastomosis resembles the preferred situation in the clinical setting. A model was described in which an AVF is created by connecting the venous end of the branch of the external jugular vein to the side of the common carotid artery using interrupted sutures. At a histological level, we observed progressive stenotic intimal lesions in the venous outflow tract that is also seen in failed human AVFs. Although this procedure can be technically challenging due to the small dimensions of the animal, we were able to achieve a surgical success rate of 97% after sufficient training. The key advantage of a murine model is the availability of transgenic animals. In view of the different proposed mechanisms that are responsible for AVF failure, disabling genes that might play a role in vascular remodeling can help us to unravel the complex pathophysiology of AVF failure.

Here we present a murine model of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) failure in which a clinically relevant anastomotic configuration is incorporated. This model can be used to study the pathophysiology and to test possible therapeutic interventions.

The arteriovenous fistula (AVF) still suffers from a high number of failures caused by insufficient remodeling and intimal hyperplasia from which the ...

Modified Single-Loop Reconstruction for Pancreaticoduodenectomy

Modified single-loop reconstruction in pancreaticoduodenectomy separates pancreatic secretion from bile. It is performed in cases of high-risk pancreatic remnants to reduce the severity of postoperative pancreatic fistulas and moreover the overall postoperative morbidity. This reconstruction technique is characterized by an extra-long jejunal loop for the construction of the pancreaticojejunostomy and hepaticojejunostomy. The longer distance between these anastomoses and an additional jejuno-jejunostomy between the afferent and efferent limb of the hepaticojejunostomy separate the fluids and prevent backflow of bile towards the pancreaticojejunostomy. Thus, the secretions cannot activate each other and aggravate an existing anastomotic leakage. We observed a reduced rate of severe postoperative pancreatic fistulas after modified single-loop reconstruction compared to conventional single loop reconstruction. The technique is easy to perform, safe, and less time-consuming than a traditional double-loop reconstruction.

The technique of modified single-loop reconstruction following pancreaticoduodenectomy separates pancreatic secretion from bile, thus reducing the severity of POPF without prolonging the duration of surgery.

Modified single-loop reconstruction in pancreaticoduodenectomy separates pancreatic secretion from bile. It is performed in cases of high-risk pancreatic ...

Robot-Assisted Radical Antegrade Modular Pancreatosplenectomy Including Resection and Reconstruction of the Spleno-Mesenteric Junction

This article shows the technique of robot-assisted radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy, including resection and reconstruction of the spleno-mesenteric junction, for cancer of the body-tail of the pancreas. The patient is placed supine with the legs parted and a pneumoperitoneum is established and maintained at 10 mmHg. To use the surgical system, four 8 mm ports and one 12 mm port are required. The optic port is placed at the umbilicus. The other ports are placed, on either side, along the pararectal line and the anterior axillary line at the level of the umbilical line. The assistant port (12 mm) is placed along the right pararectal line. Dissection begins by detaching the gastrocolic ligament, thus opening the lesser sac, and by a wide mobilization of the splenic flexure of the colon. The superior mesenteric vein is identified along the inferior border of the pancreas. Lymph node number 8a is removed to permit clear visualization of the common hepatic artery. A tunnel is then created behind the neck of the pancreas. To permit safe resection and reconstruction of the spleno-mesenteric junction, further preemptive dissection is required before dividing the pancreatic neck to bring in clear view all relevant vascular pedicles. Next, the splenic artery is ligated and divided, and the pancreatic neck is divided, with selective ligature of the pancreatic duct. After vein resection and reconstruction, dissection proceeds to complete the clearance of peripancreatic arteries that are peeled off from all lympho-neural tissues. Both celiac ganglia are removed en-bloc with the specimen. The Gerota fascia covering the upper pole of the left kidney is also removed en-bloc with the specimen. Division of short gastric vessels and splenectomy complete the procedure. A drain is left near the pancreatic stump. The round ligament of the liver is mobilized to protect the vessels.

The robotic technique shown herein aims at faithfully reproducing the open procedure for radical treatment of cancer of the body-tail of the pancreas. The protocol also demonstrates the ability to master involvement of major peripancreatic vessels without conversion to open surgery.

This article shows the technique of robot-assisted radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy, including resection and reconstruction of the ...

OP-IVM: Combining In vitro Maturation after Oocyte Retrieval with Gynecological Surgery

The use of in vitro maturation (IVM) before gynecological operation (OP-IVM) is an extension of conventional IVM that combines IVM following oocyte retrieval with routine gynecological surgery. OP-IVM is suitable for patients undergoing benign gynecological surgery who have the need for fertility preservation (FP) or infertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). In the operating room, patients undergoing benign gynecological surgery are first anesthetized and receive ultrasound-guided immature follicle aspiration (IMFA) treatment. As the subsequent gynecological surgery is performed, the cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) are examined, and the immature COCs are transferred into the IVM medium and cultured for 28-32 hours in the IVF laboratory. After assessment, mature oocytes in the MII stage will be selected and cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen for FP or fertilized by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for IVF-ET. By combining IVM with gynecological surgery, immature oocytes that would have been discarded can be saved and used for assisted reproductive technology (ART). The procedure, significance and critical aspects of OP-IVM are described in this article.

In vitro maturation (IVM) before gynecological operation (OP-IVM) combines IVM following oocyte retrieval with routine gynecological surgery and serves as an extension of conventional IVM applications for fertility preservation.

The use of in vitro maturation (IVM) before gynecological operation (OP-IVM) is an extension of conventional IVM that combines IVM following oocyte ...

Robot-Assisted Kidney Transplantation

This paper describes robot-assisted kidney transplantation (RAKT) from a living donor. The robot is docked between the parted legs of the patient, placed in the supine Trendelenburg position. Kidney allografts are provided by a living donor. Before vascular anastomosis, the kidney allograft is prepared by inserting a double-J stent in the ureter, and the temperature for the anastomosis is lowered by wrapping it in an ice-packed gauze. A 12 mm or 8 mm port for the robotic camera and three 8 mm ports for robotic arms are placed. A peritoneal pouch is created for the kidney allograft by raising the peritoneal flaps on both sides over the psoas muscle before dissecting the iliac vessels and bladder. A 6 cm Pfannenstiel incision is made to insert the kidney into the peritoneal pouch, lateral to the right iliac vessels. 
After clamping the external iliac vein with Bulldogs clamps, a venotomy is performed, and the graft renal vein is anastomosed to the external iliac vein in an end-to-side continuous manner with a 6/0 polytetrafluoroethylene suture. After clamping the graft renal vein, the iliac vein is declamped. This is followed by clamping of the external iliac artery, arteriotomy, arterial anastomosis with a 6/0 polytetrafluoroethylene suture, clamping of the graft renal artery, and declamping of the external iliac artery. Reperfusion is then carried out, and ureteroneocystostomy is performed using the Lich-Gregoir technique. The peritoneum is closed at a few locations with polymer locking clips, and a closed-suction drain is placed through one of the working ports. After deflating the pneumoperitoneum, all incisions are closed.

This paper provides technical details for robot-assisted kidney transplantation from a living donor.

This paper describes robot-assisted kidney transplantation (RAKT) from a living donor. The robot is docked between the parted legs of the patient, placed ...

Robot-assisted Total Mesorectal Excision and Lateral Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection for Locally Advanced Middle-low Rectal Cancer

Since their approval for clinical use, da Vinci surgical robots have shown great advantages in gastrointestinal surgical operations, especially in complex procedures. The high-quality 3-D visual, multijoint arm and natural tremor filtration allow the surgeon to expose and dissect more accurately with minimal invasion. Total mesorectal excision is the standard surgical technique for the treatment of resectable rectal cancer. To reduce the lateral recurrence rate, lateral pelvic lymph node dissection can be performed, as it is a safe and feasible procedure for locally advanced middle-low rectal cancer with a high possibility of metastasis to the lateral lymph nodes. However, the complexity of the anatomic structures and the high postoperative complication rate limit its application. Recently, several surgeons have increasingly used robotic techniques for total mesorectal excision and lateral pelvic lymph node dissection. Compared with open and laparoscopic surgery, the robotic technique has several advantages, such as less blood loss, fewer blood transfusions, minimal trauma, shorter postoperative hospitalization, and quicker recovery. A robotic approach is generally regarded as a reasonable alternative for complicated procedures such as lateral pelvic lymph node dissection, although there are a limited number of high-quality prospective randomized controlled studies reporting direct evidence. Here, we provide the detailed steps of robot-assisted total mesorectal excision and lateral pelvic lymph node dissection performed at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi&#39;an Jiaotong University.

The robotic technique described herein aims to detail a stepwise approach to robot-assisted total mesorectal excision and lateral pelvic lymph node dissection for locally advanced (T3/T4) rectal cancer located below the peritoneal reflection.

Since their approval for clinical use, da Vinci surgical robots have shown great advantages in gastrointestinal surgical operations, especially in complex ...

Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

The technique of Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RS-RARP) and initial experience with it at a single center are provided. The technique is described step-by-step and further illustrated by a video to enhance reproducibility. Early oncological and functional results were evaluated. In total, 77 patients were included with a median follow-up of 11 months (range: 3-21 months). Fifty-one percent of patients had local high-risk or locally advanced prostate cancer. There were no intra-operative complications, and all high-grade complications (2.6%) were related to pelvic lymph node dissection performed concomitant with RS-RARP. Median operation time was 160 min (range: 122-265 min) and median hospital stay was 3 (range: 3-8) days. A positive surgical margin was reported in 42.9%. One-year biochemical recurrence-free survival was 90.1%. After 6 months, all patients were socially continent and after 1 year, 94.3% were fully continent. Of sexually active patients who underwent at least unilateral nerve-sparing, 43.3% were able to have sexual intercourse. This series underlines the surgical safety of performing RS-RARP by a standardized technique and confirms the beneficial effect on the early return of continence. The patient needs to be informed about the risk of a positive surgical margin.

Robot-assisted Retzius-sparing radical prostatectomy is a technique that enables to preserve urinary continence or facilitates recovery of urinary continence in the majority of patients. Patients must be informed about the risk of a positive surgical margin.

The technique of Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RS-RARP) and initial experience with it at a single center are provided. The ...

A Modified Vessel-Sparing Microsurgical Vasoepididymostomy

Microsurgical vasoepididymostomy (MVE) is the main surgical treatment for epididymal obstruction. The vasal vessels are ligated during MVE. However, preserving the vasal vessels during MVE might better simulate the normal physiological structure and be meaningful for patients who have undergone varicocelectomy. Nevertheless, preserving the vasal vessels might elevate the risk of increasing the tension of anastomosis, affecting the patency rate and leading to delayed postoperative bleeding. Therefore, we developed a novel vessel-sparing MVE to make it safer. Here is a summary of the improvements to the procedure. 1) The retrograde dissociation of the vasal vessels on the proximal testicular side was adopted as the main method, and the anterograde dissociation of the vasal vessels on the distal testicular side was adopted as a supplement to dissociate the vasal vessels to be preserved. This improvement ensures the blood supply to the vas deferens that will be used for anastomosis and also provides longer vasal vessels, which reduces the tension of anastomosis. 2) By fixing the vas deferens to be anastomosed and the broken end of the vas deferens, the free vasal vessels get fixed, which resolves the problem of transmission of vas tension to the vasal vessels and reduces the risk of vasal vessel hemorrhage. 3) Dissociation of the vas deferens after opening the tunica vaginalis increases the mobilization of the vas deferens, which also makes the new procedure easier to complete. The evaluation of the outcomes of this new procedure showed that no significant postoperative complications occurred in the patients, and the patency rate was no different from that of the conventional procedure. Therefore, this new, improved procedure can be considered safe, with satisfactory postoperative results.

Here, we present a protocol to preserve the vasal vessels in microsurgical vasoepididymostomy. The surgical security is enhanced by preserving the vasal vessels using a retrograde-anterograde dissociation and fixing the vasal vessels.

Microsurgical vasoepididymostomy (MVE) is the main surgical treatment for epididymal obstruction. The vasal vessels are ligated during MVE. However, ...