Evaluation of a New Vascular Suture System for Aortic Laparoscopic Surgery: An Experimental Study on Pigs and Cadavers

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and efficacy of a new laparoscopic vascular suturing device.MethodsAnimal study: six pigs underwent surgery using a retroperitoneal laparoscopic approach. Aorto-prosthetic side-to-end and end-to-end anastomoses were performed laparoscopically on each pig using SuDyn®. Clamping and anastomosis times, as well as the properties of the anastomoses, were recorded.Study on cadavers: four aorto-prosthetic end-to-end anastomoses were performed using the direct transperitoneal laparoscopic approach to assess the feasibility of the SuDyn® device on atherosclerotic aortas.ResultsAnimal study: No pigs died and 12 patent and impermeable anastomoses were obtained. Mean anastomosis time was 38(+/−8) min for end-to-side anastomoses and 37(+/−5) min for end-to-end anastomoses.Study on cadavers: Totally laparoscopic anastomoses were performed in 4 human cadavers with a mean anastomosis time of 37(+/−3) min.ConclusionsSuDyn® makes laparoscopic aorto-prosthetic anastomoses easier to perform, produces good results and does not require a learning curve.