A pre-clinical application study of the SATA-LRS laparoscopic instrument in a human cadaver model

Abstract

Introduction: The SATA-LRS is a novel laparoscopic instrument with additional steering features at the tip. In order to validate whether the instrument fits surgical practice, a preclinical study was performed. Methods: Thirteen medical doctors with varying laparoscopic experience used the instrument in a pick-and-place task inside a cadaver. A set of sensors was added to the handle to detect the handle motion and steering of the instrument tip. Laparoscopic images and data of the participants were recorded. A questionnaire was used to gain insight into the participant’s perception of the contextual factors, the instrument steering and training task. Results: Instrument handling was proven intuitive and there was no difference found in task time and instrument handle velocities. All participants used the steering features at at-least 15° about half of the task time. Handle movement was significantly less during tip articulation. The questionnaire indicated strong acceptance of the instrument and a desire to use the instrument in surgery by a majority of participants. Discussion: The added steering features of the SATA-LRS were deemed beneficial by the participants. There was no indication of reduced instrument efficacy with increased handling complexity. The lower handle movement indicates a beneficial instrument positioning and an overall improvement in handling ergonomics.