Biomedical
Evaluation of the SYNAPSE VINCENT for lateral lymph node dissection in rectal cancer with robotic surgery: a preliminary report
Nobuhisa Matsuhashi
Nobuhisa Matsuhashi
Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
Abstract
Background Even if 3D angiographic images of preoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) are created, the coronal and axial sections can be unclear, and thus, it is difficult to achieve projection awareness similar to that of actual laparoscopic images. In recent years, the technology of analyzing and applying medical images has advanced, and surgical simulation and navigation have been widely used to improve the safety of surgical operations. It is important to understand pelvic anatomy in the area of rectal cancer, and use of the SYNAPSE VINCENT makes it possible to simulate the anatomy before surgery, which is very useful in educating surgeons and their assistants. Materials and methods An important objective in surgery is to understand the anatomy of the external/internal iliac arteries and lymph nodes in lateral lymph node dissection (LLD) for rectal cancer. In this study, we explored the accuracy and usefulness of SYNAPSE VINCENT images of pelvic anatomy (especially vascular anatomy) analyzed preoperatively in two cases of LLD for rectal cancer in our department. Results The patients were two men aged 73 and 57 years, respectively. Both patients underwent robotic abdominal perineal resection and LLD with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. The operating times for LLD were 138 and 106 min, estimated blood loss was less than 10 mL and 20 mL, and the harvested lymph nodes were nos. 21 and 22, respectively. The SYNAPSE VINCENT could be used for simulation and navigation before and during surgery. For experienced surgeons, the system helped them carry out operations more accurately. Conclusion In the future, surgical support using virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality based on medical images will be useful and is expected to improve the safety, accuracy, and efficiency of surgery, which is extremely useful for both young and skilled surgeons preparing for difficult operations.
Key Questions
CopyWhy is it hard to understand pelvic anatomy during rectal cancer surgery?
Even with 3D images from CT scans, the coronal and axial views can be unclear, making it tough for surgeons to visualize the anatomy as they would during actual surgery. This is especially challenging in complex procedures like lateral lymph node dissection (LLD), where understanding the pelvic blood vessels and lymph nodes is critical.
What is SYNAPSE VINCENT, and how does it help?
SYNAPSE VINCENT is a tool that uses advanced medical imaging to create detailed 3D models of a patient’s anatomy. It allows surgeons to simulate and navigate the surgery before stepping into the operating room, making it easier to understand complex structures like blood vessels and lymph nodes.
How was SYNAPSE VINCENT used in this study?
The study looked at two cases of rectal cancer where SYNAPSE VINCENT was used to analyze pelvic anatomy before surgery. Both patients underwent robotic surgery with lateral lymph node dissection. The tool helped surgeons plan the procedure and navigate during the operation, improving accuracy and safety.
What were the results of using SYNAPSE VINCENT?
In both cases, the surgeries were successful, with minimal blood loss (less than 20 mL) and relatively short operating times for LLD (138 and 106 minutes). The tool helped experienced surgeons perform the procedures more precisely and provided valuable insights into the pelvic anatomy.
Why is this technology important for the future of surgery?
Tools like SYNAPSE VINCENT, which use virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR), are expected to make surgeries safer, more accurate, and more efficient. They’re especially helpful for preparing for complex operations, whether you’re a young surgeon learning the ropes or an experienced one tackling a challenging case.
