title: Mini-Laparoscopy: Instruments and Economics.
abstract: Mini-laparoscopy (Mini) was pioneered more than 20 years ago, initially with instruments borrowed from other specialties and subsequently with tools designed specifically for Mini. Early adoption of Mini was inhibited though by the limitations of these first-generation instruments, especially functionality and durability. Newer generation Mini instruments have recently become available with improved effector tips, a choice of shaft diameters and lengths, better shaft insulation and electrosurgery capability, improved shaft strength and rotation, more ergonomic handles, low-friction trocar options, and improved instrument durability. Improvements are also occurring in imaging and advanced energy for Mini. The current status of mini-laparoscopy instruments and economics are presented.
authors.affiliation: Duke University, Duke Regional Hospital, TOA Surgical Specialists, North Carolina Specialty Hospital, Durham, North Carolina.
authors.forename: Phillip P
authors.initials: PP
authors.lastname: Shadduck
authors.affiliation: Centro Medico ABC Santa Fe, Mexico City, Mexico.
authors.forename: Eduardo Moreno
authors.initials: EM
authors.lastname: Paquentin
authors.affiliation: University of Pernambuco, Attending Surgeon, Department of Surgery, Hospital Universitário Oswaldo Cruz, Recife, Brazil.
authors.forename: Gustavo L
authors.initials: GL
authors.lastname: Carvalho
authors.affiliation: Minimally Invasive General Surgery, Florida Hospital Celebration Health, Celebration, Florida, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida.
authors.forename: Jay A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Redan
mesh_terms: D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D020706:Laparoscopes; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008904:Miniaturization / Q000295:instrumentation*