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World J Gastrointest Surg. Jun 27, 2010; 2(6): 210-216
Published online Jun 27, 2010. doi: 10.4240/wjgs.v2.i6.210
Published online Jun 27, 2010. doi: 10.4240/wjgs.v2.i6.210
Natural orifice translumenal surgery: Flexible platform review
Sohail N Shaikh, Christopher C Thompson, Division of Gastroenterology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States
Author contributions: Shaikh SN created the manuscript; Thompson CC performed the editing and aided in the final manuscript creation.
Correspondence to: Christopher C Thompson, MD, Assistant Professor, Division of Gastroenterology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115, United States. ccthompson@partners.org
Telephone: +1-617-5258266 Fax: +1-617-5258740
Received: December 26, 2009
Revised: February 18, 2010
Accepted: February 25, 2010
Published online: June 27, 2010
Revised: February 18, 2010
Accepted: February 25, 2010
Published online: June 27, 2010
Abstract
Natural orifice translumenal surgery (NOTES) has garnished significant attention from surgeons and gastroenterologists, due to the fusion of flexible endoscopy and operative technique. Preliminary efforts suggest that NOTES holds potential for a less invasive approach with certain surgical conditions. Many of the hurdles encountered during the shift from open to laparoscopic surgery are now being revisited in the development of NOTES. Physician directed efforts, coupled with industry support, have brought about several NOTES specific devices and platforms to help address limitations with current instrumentation. This review addresses current flexible platforms and their attributes, advantages, disadvantages and limitations.
Keywords: Direct drive endoscopic system, Incisionless operating platform, Natural orifice translumenal surgery, Natural orifice translumenal surgery scope, Challenges, Attributes