Disposable Specimen Retrieval Bag

Disposable Specimen Retrieval Bag

A disposable specimen retrieval bag, also known as an endoscopic specimen bag or endo bag, is a medical device used to safely remove tissue specimens, organs, or other materials from the body during minimally invasive surgeries. These bags are particularly useful in laparoscopic and robotic-assisted procedures where small incisions are used, and the retrieval of specimens needs to be managed carefully to prevent contamination and ensure complete removal.

Available as

Handle A (1st Image)
10mm Introducer. 250ml Volume
10mm Introducer. 350ml Volume
10mm Introducer. 1000ml Volume

Handle B (2nd Image)
10mm Introducer. 250ml Volume
10mm Introducer. 350ml Volume
10mm Introducer. 1000ml Volume
10mm Introducer. 1200ml Volume
12mm Introducer. 1500ml Volume

Components and Design

  1. Bag: A sterile, flexible pouch made of durable, biocompatible material (often polyurethane or polyethylene) designed to hold and contain the specimen.
  2. Opening Mechanism: The bag often includes a rigid or semi-rigid rim or mouth to keep the bag open when deployed within the body cavity.
  3. Deployment System: The bag is typically deployed through a trocar or port and is often folded or rolled within an introducer device.
  4. Drawstring or Closure Mechanism: Ensures the bag can be securely closed once the specimen is inside to prevent spillage and contamination.

Uses

  • Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Removal of the gallbladder.
  • Appendectomy: Removal of the appendix.
  • Myomectomy: Removal of fibroids from the uterus.
  • Ovarian Cystectomy: Removal of ovarian cysts.
  • Nephrectomy: Removal of kidney tissue or whole kidney.
  • Oncological Surgeries: Removal of tumor specimens for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Advantages

  1. Sterility: Being disposable, each bag is sterile-packed, ensuring no risk of cross-contamination.
  2. Convenience: Eliminates the need for cleaning and sterilization, saving time and reducing turnaround times between surgeries.
  3. Safety: Minimizes the risk of spillage and contamination within the body cavity during specimen retrieval.
  4. Integrity: Ensures the complete retrieval of specimens, including small fragments that might otherwise be left behind.
  5. Ease of Use: Designed for easy deployment and retrieval through small incisions, making them suitable for minimally invasive procedures.

Procedure

  1. Preparation: The surgical area is prepped, and the patient is positioned appropriately.
  2. Deployment: The folded specimen retrieval bag is inserted into the body cavity through a trocar or port.
  3. Opening: The bag is opened within the body cavity, often using a drawstring or rigid rim to maintain its shape.
  4. Specimen Placement: The tissue specimen is placed into the open bag using laparoscopic instruments.
  5. Closure: The drawstring or closure mechanism is used to securely close the bag, containing the specimen.
  6. Extraction: The closed bag is carefully withdrawn through the trocar or port, ensuring no spillage occurs.
  7. Completion: The bag is removed from the surgical site, and any necessary steps are taken to conclude the procedure.

Types and Variations

  1. Manual vs. Automated Deployment: Some bags require manual deployment and opening, while others feature automated systems for ease of use.
  2. Different Sizes: Available in various sizes to accommodate different types and sizes of specimens.
  3. Reinforced Bags: Some bags have reinforced edges or are made from stronger materials to handle larger or heavier specimens.

Examples of Procedures Using Disposable Specimen Retrieval Bags

  • Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: Removing the uterus or parts of it.
  • Laparoscopic Nephrectomy: Removing part or all of a kidney.
  • Laparoscopic Splenectomy: Removal of the spleen.
  • Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery: Removal of segments of the colon or rectum.
  • Robotic-assisted Surgeries: Various procedures utilizing robotic systems for precision.

Clinical Considerations

  1. Size Selection: Choosing the appropriate size of the bag based on the specimen size to ensure proper containment and retrieval.
  2. Deployment Technique: Ensuring proper technique to avoid accidental spillage or incomplete retrieval of the specimen.
  3. Patient Safety: Maintaining sterility and minimizing the risk of infection or contamination during the procedure.

Disposable specimen retrieval bags are essential tools in minimally invasive surgery, providing a reliable, sterile, and efficient means of removing tissue specimens. They enhance the safety and effectiveness of laparoscopic and robotic-assisted procedures, contributing to better patient outcomes.