Feasible techniques in robotic thoracoscopic repair of congenital esophageal atresia: case report and literature review

Shuai Li; Guoqing Cao; Rongchao Zhou; Xi Zhang; Ying Zhou; Shao-Tao Tang

doi:10.1186/s40792-021-01229-0

Feasible techniques in robotic thoracoscopic repair of congenital esophageal atresia: case report and literature review

Surg Case Rep. 2021 Jun 15;7(1):142. doi: 10.1186/s40792-021-01229-0. eCollection 2021 Dec.

Authors

Shuai Li¹, Guoqing Cao¹, Rongchao Zhou², Xi Zhang¹, Ying Zhou¹, Shao-Tao Tang¹

Affiliations

¹ Department of Pediatric Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jie Fang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022 China.
² Operation Room, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022 China.

Abstract

Background: Robotic repair for esophageal atresia (EA) using da Vinci system is challenging. Specific surgical techniques need to be explored to overcome the current hurdles.

Case presentation: Two cases with EA (type I and type III by Gross classification, respectively) were repaired using da Vinci robotic system. Step trocar insertion and asymmetric ports distribution techniques were used. The mean weight was 3.2 kg. Operative times were 95 min totally, with the anastomotic time of 27.5 min. Follow-up duration was 12 months. Esophageal fistula reoccurred in one case. None was confirmed anastomotic stricture.

Conclusion: Step trocar insertion procedure and asymmetric ports distribution technique are effective in robotic esophageal atresia.

Keywords: Esophageal atresia; Neonate; Robotic surgery.

Publication types

Case Reports