Video of Mistakes and Errors in Minimal Access Surgery: Identifying Pitfalls to Improve Surgical Safety
In this video, we will discuss that While Minimal Access Surgery (MAS) has transformed modern surgical practice with its benefits of reduced pain, faster recovery, and minimal scarring, it also introduces unique technical challenges. In this video titled "Mistakes and Errors in Minimal Access Surgery: Identifying Pitfalls to Improve Surgical Safety," we explore the most common intraoperative errors encountered during laparoscopic and robotic procedures, their underlying causes, and evidence-based strategies for prevention. This video is an essential resource for surgeons, trainees, and operating room teams committed to advancing surgical safety and excellence.
Common Errors in Minimal Access Surgery
Inadequate Port Placement
Poorly planned port positioning compromises triangulation, limits instrument mobility, and can result in ergonomic strain, increased fatigue, and suboptimal access to the target anatomy.
Access-Related Complications
Injuries to bowel, bladder, or major vessels during initial entry using Veress needle or trocar are among the most feared complications. These risks are higher in patients with previous surgeries or adhesions.
Improper Use of Energy Devices
Misuse of monopolar, bipolar, or ultrasonic energy sources can lead to thermal injuries, insulation failure, or unintended burns to nearby organs—often with delayed diagnosis.
Loss of Orientation and Depth Perception
The two-dimensional view in conventional laparoscopy may result in misjudging distances, leading to vascular or visceral injury. This is especially critical during dissection near vital structures.
Faulty Suturing and Knotting
Insecure knots, poor needle handling, or tissue tears can lead to anastomotic leaks, vault dehiscence, or bleeding.
Instrument Collision and Incoordination
Clashing instruments, camera instability, and poor communication between the surgeon and assistant can prolong operative time and lead to avoidable errors.
Root Causes of These Errors
Insufficient hands-on training or simulation exposure
Lack of anatomical knowledge specific to laparoscopic views
Overconfidence or under-preparedness
Operating fatigue and poor ergonomics
Inadequate team communication and setup planning
Strategies to Prevent Errors
Preoperative planning with port mapping and positioning based on procedure and patient profile
Structured simulation-based training for suturing, dissection, and camera navigation
Checklists and safety protocols for entry, energy activation, and instrument exchange
Clear team communication with defined roles and real-time feedback during surgery
Video recording and postoperative review to identify errors and improve future performance
Conclusion
Avoiding errors in Minimal Access Surgery requires more than technical skill—it demands planning, awareness, teamwork, and continuous learning. By understanding and anticipating these common pitfalls, surgeons can take proactive steps to enhance precision, reduce complications, and ensure patient safety.
Watch the full video to gain deeper insight into real-world challenges in MAS, and learn how to prevent them through structured techniques, training, and surgical discipline. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more educational content from World Laparoscopy Hospital.
Common Errors in Minimal Access Surgery
Inadequate Port Placement
Poorly planned port positioning compromises triangulation, limits instrument mobility, and can result in ergonomic strain, increased fatigue, and suboptimal access to the target anatomy.
Access-Related Complications
Injuries to bowel, bladder, or major vessels during initial entry using Veress needle or trocar are among the most feared complications. These risks are higher in patients with previous surgeries or adhesions.
Improper Use of Energy Devices
Misuse of monopolar, bipolar, or ultrasonic energy sources can lead to thermal injuries, insulation failure, or unintended burns to nearby organs—often with delayed diagnosis.
Loss of Orientation and Depth Perception
The two-dimensional view in conventional laparoscopy may result in misjudging distances, leading to vascular or visceral injury. This is especially critical during dissection near vital structures.
Faulty Suturing and Knotting
Insecure knots, poor needle handling, or tissue tears can lead to anastomotic leaks, vault dehiscence, or bleeding.
Instrument Collision and Incoordination
Clashing instruments, camera instability, and poor communication between the surgeon and assistant can prolong operative time and lead to avoidable errors.
Root Causes of These Errors
Insufficient hands-on training or simulation exposure
Lack of anatomical knowledge specific to laparoscopic views
Overconfidence or under-preparedness
Operating fatigue and poor ergonomics
Inadequate team communication and setup planning
Strategies to Prevent Errors
Preoperative planning with port mapping and positioning based on procedure and patient profile
Structured simulation-based training for suturing, dissection, and camera navigation
Checklists and safety protocols for entry, energy activation, and instrument exchange
Clear team communication with defined roles and real-time feedback during surgery
Video recording and postoperative review to identify errors and improve future performance
Conclusion
Avoiding errors in Minimal Access Surgery requires more than technical skill—it demands planning, awareness, teamwork, and continuous learning. By understanding and anticipating these common pitfalls, surgeons can take proactive steps to enhance precision, reduce complications, and ensure patient safety.
Watch the full video to gain deeper insight into real-world challenges in MAS, and learn how to prevent them through structured techniques, training, and surgical discipline. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more educational content from World Laparoscopy Hospital.
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