Background

Fluorescence guided (FG) surgery uses a near-infrared emitting dye or light source to improve intraoperative visualization. This study describes the first in-human use of the Endolumik FG calibration tube during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).

Methods

Fifteen participants underwent LSG using the novel device. The single-use, 40-French device was used for gastric content evacuation, gastric sleeve calibration, and leak test. Surgical and anesthesia providers completed a device evaluation survey to rate their experience.

Results

Fifteen participants underwent LSG using the novel device. The single-use, 40-French device was used to evacuate gastric contents, calibrate the gastric sleeve, and test for leak. Surgical and anesthesia providers completed a device evaluation survey to rate their experience. Of surgical team members, 100% rated their overall experience using the device compared to the standard bougie as good or very good, and rated visualization while constructing a gastric sleeve as good or very good. Additionally, 90% of surgeons were confident or very confident that the device enabled construction of a consistently sized gastric sleeve. Of anesthesia providers, 82% rated device visualization as good or very good. Of 24 clinicians, 71% responded that surgical teams would be more likely or very likely to avoid adverse events using the device, compared to a standard, unlit device. Of the surgical respondents, the average likelihood to recommend this device to a colleague was 9.1 out of 10.

Conclusions

FG tools can improve visualization during bariatric surgery, however further study is warranted to determine if these tools can improve surgical outcomes.