Tools for Hand-Assisted Laparoscopy

Called the HandTact Instrument Set, the set comprises lightweight, palm-sized laparoscopic scissors, dissectors, and graspers.

Compared to traditional laparoscopy, hand-assisted laparoscopy surgery (HALS) improves three-dimensional orientation and tactile sense, states Smith & Nephew Endoscopy (Andover, MA, USA), the developer of HandTact. HALS also produces smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays and recovery times as well as cost savings. The new tools are intended as accessories to the HandPort System of Smith & Nephew Endoscopy, which was designed specifically for HALS procedures. The HandPort System features a nonadhesive sealing mechanism that quickly attaches to the incisions of the abdominal cavity and helps keep the cavity distended throughout the surgery, providing the surgeon with optimal visualization.

"The ability to dissect, sew, and atraumatically grasp tissue with my nondominant hand increases my overall tactile effectiveness and may increase my control of the patient's intra-abdominal environment,” said Dr. Ara Darzi, professor of surgery, Imperial College School of Medicine (London, UK).



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Smith & Nephew Endoscopy