How to demarcate intersegmental plane with resected-segments inflation method using the slip knot technique in thoracoscopic anatomic segmentectomy.

Intersegmental demarcation line on the surface of the visceral pleura could not be found at thoracoscopic findings. The resected segments inflation (RSI) method has been reported as a useful technique for visualizing the intersegmental demarcation line during segmentectomy. Thoracoscopic anatomic segmentectomy is performed as follows: firstly, the pulmonary vein and artery of the segment planned for resection are dissected from the hilum in order to isolate the segmental bronchus located behind the pulmonary artery. Secondly, a monofilament non-absorbable suture is passed through the segmental bronchus, and a slip-knot is made outside the thorax. Thirdly, bilateral lung ventilation with pure oxygen is conducted. When the affected segment has inflated sufficiently, the slip knot suture is pulled and the segmental bronchus is ligated and collapse of the lung is made on reserved segments. Fourthly, as inflation of the affected segment and collapse of the reserved segments could be found, resection of intersegmental plane could be easily performed with the inflation-deflation line and the intersegmental pulmonary vein. If resected segmental bronchus could be identified, thoracoscopic segmentectomy with the slip-knot technique would be applicable. This slip-knot procedure is economical and is not need special instrument.