A Stitch in Time: Why Linear Cutters Are Invaluable in Endo-Surgery

Laparoscopic surgery gained widespread acceptance after 1986, when advancements in video technology improved visualization and precision. Today, laparoscopic techniques are preferred across multiple specialties, offering reduced post-operative pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays compared to open procedures.

A key instrument used during modern laparoscopic surgery is the linear cutter stapler. These are widely used in gastrointestinal, gynecologic, urological, and pediatric surgeries for transection, resection, and to create anastomosis. By simultaneously cutting and stapling tissue, linear cutters help maintain surgical precision while minimizing blood loss and complications. They also reduce post-operative pain and offer faster recovery, leading to shorter hospital stays. Additionally, the ability to operate through small incisions also reduces the risk of infection and improves cosmetic outcomes for patients.

The efficiency of these devices, however, depends on proper technique and surgical expertise. Issues such as misalignment of the stapler with the tissue, application of excessive tension to the tissue, or over-firing can lead to complications, including tissue damage or incomplete sealing.

Tissue thickness is another critical challenge when stapling laparoscopically. Thin or weak tissue may not hold staples properly, which could lead to a leak or incomplete sealing of the incision. Conversely, thick tissue needs staplers that can use greater force. To address these challenges, modern linear cutters are designed with adaptive technologies, including variable staple heights, a variety of nail cartridges, and enhanced firing mechanisms that improve consistency and reduce tissue trauma.

One example of such advancements is Meril’s Mirus Powered Endoscopic Linear Cutter. Designed with a focus on precision, stability, and controlled tissue compression, the Mirus Endoscopic Linear Cutter has 60° articulation for better flexibility and improved access to narrow spaces and challenging economy. It features a non-slip anvil for better compression and reduced tissue slippage during firing, as well as a safety switch for secure surgery. Its varied height staple accommodates different tissue thicknesses, while its cartridge comes equipped with a new sterile knife blade, which allows for clean cuts, avoiding cross contamination.

The device can be loaded and fired 12 times. The staples are formed in the standard “B” shape and appear in three rows of varying heights using stair stepping technology, thereby offering superior hemostasis. By mitigating the force placed on it during firing, this instrument provides optimal tissue compression and consistent formation of staples. The jaws of the stapler do not close tightly on the tissue, reducing the risk of tissue trauma. Moreover, the staple line extends well beyond the line of incision to ensure complete closure of the incision. During anastomosis creation, the Mirus Endoscopic Cutter curtails the incidence of leakage and bleeding along the anastomosis line.

Developing products through collaboration with medical professionals, along with best-in-class innovative thinking and cutting-edge technologies, is a core tenet of Meril’s philosophy. As access to healthcare and healthcare technologies continue to improve, so will the surgical needs of medical professionals and patients continue to grow. And as minimally invasive techniques continue to evolve, innovations in surgical instrumentation will play a key role in improving patient outcomes. Meril’s focus—through all its products—remains on enhancing surgical precision, reducing complications, and supporting better recovery for patients undergoing various procedures.

References:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9449087/
https://www.laparoscopyhospital.com/streamlecture/index.php?pid=66&p=8&cat_id=2&&search=
https://www.merillife.com/blog/medtech/open-vs-laparoscopic-surgery-which-is-the-best-procedure
https://en.victormedic.com/principle-and-advantages-of-using-endoscopic-linear-cutter-stapler.html
https://www.merillife.com/medical-devices/endosurgery/endo-mechancial-staplers/laparoscopic-surgery/mirus-powered-endoscopic-linear-cutter-and-reloads
https://www.merillife.com/blog/medtech/mirus-linear-cutter-and-mirus-endoscopic-linear-cutter-with-best-in-class-b-shape-staple-formation