A view from the shoulders of giants: Using history to optimize the modern minimally invasive right hemicolectomy

Abstract

Although minimally invasive surgery has reduced postoperative pain and length of hospital stay after right hemicolectomy, identification of anatomic landmarks is critical in ensuring safe technique through the narrow lens of the laparoscope. Well-known anatomical eponyms, such as the fold of Treves and Gerota's fascia, are commonly referenced during the teaching of this procedure when performing mobilization of the right colon off the peritoneal wall and entry into the lesser sac. In addition, there are lesser-known landmarks involved in this procedure, such as the Bouchet area and Fredet's fascia, that facilitate access to the lesser sac and bloodless dissection planes. However, little is usually known about the biographical information of the physicians after whom these landmarks are named. To enhance the teaching of this procedure, the steps involved in a right hemicolectomy with their corresponding eponymous landmarks are narrated alongside the biographical background of each of the physicians after whom they are named.