Use of the contour ® curved cutter stapler device for rectal transection during robotic assisted surgery.

BACKGROUND

Rectal division during minimally invasive surgery including robotic assisted surgery remains challenging, with current techniques often requiring multiple stapler firings to achieve effective transection.

AIMS: We propose a novel technique which allows the use of a Contour® Curved Cutter Stapler to achieve rectal division during robotic assisted surgery.

METHODS

The stapler is inserted through the routinely made pfannenstiel incision and a glove, over an Alexis® port used to create an airtight seal.

CONCLUSION

This simple technique enables reliable perpendicular single stapler firing to achieve rectal transection during colorectal robotic assisted surgery without the requirement for any further incisions.