Complications related to linear staplers

Abstract

Linear staplers have become a critical element in the surgical armamentarium of the robotic urologic surgeon and are routinely used to ligate large vessels and resect bowel segments. The most commonly used stapler is the endovascular gastrointestinal anastomosis (GIA) stapler. Specifically, these staplers are used to control the renal hilar vessels during robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (RALRN) and the dorsal venous complex (DVC) during robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALRP). As robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical cystectomy (RALRC) gains popularity and intracorporeal diversions are performed, stapled bowel anastomoses present their own set of unique complications. In general, these staplers function well and provide excellent vascular control, but complications may occur, and their consequences can vary from minor to life-threatening sequelae.