INSTRUMENTATION AND SETUP FOR ENDOSCOPIC PLASTIC-SURGERY

The adoption of endoscopic surgical techniques adds an important new t ool for the plastic surgeon but adds new complexities of operative set up and instrumentation. Familiarity in choice, design, function, and u se of endoscopic instrumentation will serve to expedite operative proc edures and minimize surgeon frustration. Similarly, the development of an organized approach to operating room setup, including consideratio n of access incision sites, will expedite endoscopic procedures. This article includes an overview of currently available instrumentation fo r endoscopic plastic surgical procedures. A generalized approach to op erating room setup is described, allowing the surgeon to tailor equipm ent and patient position to individual procedures.