What is phn bag technique?

Percutaneous Harvest Needle (PHN) bag technique is a novel method for retrieving laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) specimens that is associated with several advantages over traditional techniques, such as reduced risk of trocar-site hernias and improved cosmesis.

Here are the key steps involved in the PHN bag technique:

1. Specimen Retrieval Bag:

- A specimen retrieval bag is prepared, usually a commercially available bag with a drawstring closure.

2. Trocar and PHN:

- A trocar (a surgical instrument used to create an opening in the abdominal wall) and Percutaneous Harvest Needle (a specialized atraumatic large bore needle) are utilized.

3. Puncture and Evacuation:

- Using the trocar, the surgeon punctures the gallbladder from the subcostal region.

- The PHN is then introduced into the gallbladder to evacuate its contents.

4. Insertion of Bag:

- The empty specimen retrieval bag is guided into the abdominal cavity through the trocar sleeve.

5. Containment and Retrieval:

- The gallbladder is carefully maneuvered into the specimen retrieval bag, ensuring its complete containment.

- The bag is then withdrawn by pulling the drawstring closure, bringing the gallbladder specimen out through the subcostal incision.

6. Closure:

- The subcostal incision is closed using sutures or medical adhesives as appropriate.

The PHN bag technique offers several benefits compared to traditional retrieval methods:

- Reduced Trocar-Site Hernias: By using a single subcostal incision rather than multiple trocars, the risk of developing a trocar-site hernia is significantly reduced.

- Improved Cosmesis: The subcostal incision involved in the PHN bag technique results in a less visible scar compared to traditional multi-trocar methods.

- Minimal Specimen Manipulation: The gallbladder is directly contained within the specimen retrieval bag, minimizing handling and potential spillage of contents.

- Cost-Effectiveness: The technique requires fewer instruments compared to traditional methods, potentially reducing costs.

- Ease of Use: The PHN bag technique is considered relatively simple to learn and perform, making it accessible to a wider range of surgeons.

It's important to note that the PHN bag technique may not be suitable for all patients, and the choice of retrieval method ultimately depends on the surgeon's assessment and the specific circumstances of the patient.