The Use of Magnetic Anchors in the Bowel Lumen for Laparoscopic Anterior Resection of Rectosigmoid Colon in Pigs: with Video

Background This article describes a new technique for retracting the rectum upward during laparoscopic surgery using the pulling force created between two magnets. Methods A magnet and a colonoscope were inserted into the rectal cavity of a swine model, and a second magnet was placed on the abdominal wall creating a magnetic anchor or retraction that pulled the rectum upward. Subsequently, a laparoscopic anterior resection of the rectosigmoid colon was performed. The magnetic anchor transferred an electromagnetic force through the abdominal wall, creating effective organ retraction without the need of a trocar. Results Surgery without the use of trocars allows for increased flexibility in the angle, distance, and location of the retraction. Since retraction was achieved without a shaft device that can impede visibility within the abdominal cavity, the surgeons achieved excellent endoscopic views. Because the intraluminal magnetic anchor was placed directly on the inside wall of the target organ, tracking target organ movement closely with the movement of the extracorporeal control magnet was possible and synchronizing their movements was not difficult. Conclusion The technique presented in this article might be less invasive and could provide more effective manageability for laparoscopic surgery.