Magnetic tracer technique in laparoscopic localization for gastrointestinal lesions

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the feasibility and safety of magnetic tracer technique for preoperative endoscopic marking in laparoscopic surgery. Methods In the preliminary study, a total of 8 patients with gastric (n=3) or colorectal (n=5) tumors underwent endoscopic magnetic marking before laparoscopic surgery from April to June in 2019. First, a magnet was attached to the lesion by 2 titanium clips under the endoscope. Second, during the subsequent laparoscopic operations, the other magnet was sent to the vicinity of the lesion through the laparoscopic tunnel. The magnet in the abdominal cavity was quickly attracted to the one in the gastrointestinal tract to successfully locate the lesions. Data of preoperative marking and operations of 8 patients were reviewed. Results All 8 lesions were marked successfully, rapid and accurate intraoperative positioning was achieved. The mean time of endoscopic marking was 5.75±2.45 minutes, and the mean time of intraoperative localization was 1.94±0.56 minutes. All patients underwent laparoscopic tumor resections with accurate localization. The mean proximal and distal resection margins of colorectal tumors were 105 mm and 74 mm respectively. No complications occurred. Conclusion Magnetic tracer technique for laparoscopic localization, simple, safe and accurate for gastrointestinal lesions, can be performed without additional equipment or endoscopic procedures involved. Key words: Gastrointestinal tract; Laparoscopes; Orientation; Magnet