Current status of product for endoscopic surgery in Korea

Kim, Eung Kook

Abstract

Endoscopic surgeries are popularly performed these days because of the advantages in rehabilitation and cosmetic aspects. But some accompanying disadvantages should not be neglected. For surgeons unfamiliar with the endoscopic surgery techniques, the operation takes more time and dangerous complications may occur more frequently. Most endoscopic surgery techniques, also called minimal invasive surgery techniques, were developed and disseminated from Europe and the U.S. They require specialized equipment and instruments that are expensive, and for this reason the total operation cost compared to conventional open surgery is higher. Despite all the advantages of endoscopic surgery, the high cost due to the of imported specialized instruments is holding back its spread in Korea. The development of self-supporting endoscopic instruments in Korea is mandatory for reducing the expense, and in this regard I have designed trocars of various size, specimen retrieval bags, suction and irrigation tubing sets, gasless laparoscopic surgery sets, scissors of various types, and forceps. Instruments used in suture and ligation which are currently under development will also soon be introduced.