Application of a New Retraction Method in Laparoscopic Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer

Background: Better exposition is important for lymph node dissection in the suprapancreatic region and lesser curvature region of the stomach, and digestive tract reconstruction, especially without excellent assistants. Patients and Methods: We developed a new laparoscopic retraction method with the use of two internal retractors (TIRs) punctured along with suture. Clinicopathological data, surgical data, and postoperative outcomes were assessed. Results: Of the 143 patients included, 51 underwent surgery with the double-sling suture method and 92 underwent surgery with the TIRs method. Laparoscopic radical gastrectomy was successfully performed in all patients. There were no significant differences in patient characteristics or preoperative data in the 2 groups. The operative time was significantly shorter in the TIR group, but the amount of bleeding did not differ. No retraction-related complications both in clipped tissue and liver occurred in all patients. Conclusions: Our new retraction technique provided an optimal surgical field and make surgery lower requirements for assistants.