Optical Trocar: A Safer Minimally Invasive Puncture Method

In laparoscopic surgery, traditional pneumoperitoneum needle puncture methods can pose inherent risks, such as vascular and tissue damage, while open surgery may cause carbon dioxide leakage and waste time. In recent years, optical trocars as an emerging technology, are gradually becoming a safer option for minimally invasive puncture. This article will explore the application and advantages of optical trocars in laparoscopic surgeries.

Advantages of Optical Trocars

Optical trocars offer higher safety and precision compared to traditional puncture methods by providing a visual method. This device can display the entire puncture process in real-time on a monitor, thus reducing uncertainty and risk during operation.

Enhanced Safety

The greatest advantage of optical trocars lies in their significantly enhanced safety. With real-time monitoring of the puncture process, doctors can clearly observe the movement path of the puncture needle and its contact with surrounding tissues. Studies show that in 650 cases of laparoscopic surgery using optical trocars, the average time to puncture entry was 92 seconds, with a complication rate of only 0.3%. These complications mainly included bowel injuries and gallbladder injuries, all of which were immediately addressed and repaired, further validating the safety of optical trocars.

Precise Control

Optical trocars provide more precise puncture control. Through real-time display screens, doctors can ensure that the puncture needle is perpendicular to the abdominal wall, reducing tissue damage caused by improper puncture angles. The high precision operation of optical trocars significantly increases the success rate of laparoscopic surgery and reduces the risks during the procedure.

Techniques for Using Optical Trocars

Proper operating techniques are crucial when using optical trocars to ensure the accuracy and safety of the puncture.

Control of Puncture Angle

The angle of the puncture needle must be strictly controlled to avoid unnecessary damage to intra-abdominal tissues. The puncture needle should be inserted perpendicular to the abdominal wall, avoiding angled entry into the abdominal cavity. This technique effectively reduces the risk of contact with important structures like the common iliac vessels, thereby minimizing the potential for damage.

Mastery of Force

The force used during puncture is equally important. Excessive force can cause tissue damage, while insufficient force may affect the success rate of the puncture. Doctors should adjust the puncture force based on the actual situation to ensure that the needle smoothly enters the abdominal cavity and stops at the appropriate position.

Adjustment Under Monitoring

When puncturing under laparoscopic monitoring, doctors can adjust the puncture direction and angle in real-time. Once the puncture needle breaks through the peritoneum, the direction should be adjusted promptly towards the pelvis until the helical tip completely enters the abdominal cavity. This real-time adjustment can effectively reduce complications caused by improper operations.

The application of optical trocars brings new developments to minimally invasive surgery. With continuous advancements in technology and expansion of application fields, optical trocars are expected to play an increasingly important role in future medical procedures. Their safety, precision, and effective risk control make them an indispensable tool in laparoscopic surgery.