Versatility of the suprapubic port in robotic assisted laparoscopic myomectomy

Abstract

Objective: To demonstrate the multiple advantages of the suprapubic port in robotic assisted laparoscopic myomectomy.

Design: Video demonstration of a robotic assisted laparoscopic myomectomy technique using a suprapubic incisional retractor (GelPOINT).

Setting: Hospital.

Patient(s): A 32-year-old primigravid women with heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain with a 12-cm leiomyoma (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics type 5).

Intervention(s): Illustrate a surgical approach during robotic assisted laparoscopic myomectomy with the use of a 5-cm suprapubic incision, an incisional retractor (GelPOINT) for the enucleation, and extraction of a large leiomyoma.

Main outcome measure(s): The effective enucleation and extraction of a leiomyoma specimen using an incisional retractor and GelPOINT. The steps of the technique and the role of GelPOINT are demonstrated.

Result(s): The procedure was performed without incident, and the patient experienced pain relief and lighter menses postoperatively. This technique has been performed successfully since June 2014 on 22 women.

Conclusion(s): During a robotic assisted laparoscopic myomectomy the suprapubic incision is both advantageous and practical. The small incision allows the surgery to remain minimally invasive; the primary umbilical trocar is inserted under direct visualization in an already insufflated abdomen; the location of the incision allows the surgical assistant easy access to the port; the passing of the needles occurs under direct visualization with minimal camera manipulation; and last, the extraction of large tissue can be performed within a specimen pouch through this same suprapubic incision in a short period.

Keywords: GelPOINT incisional retractor; minimally invasive; robotic assisted myomectomy; suprapubic port.