Chairs: Alvaro Montealegre

Faculty: Aya Mohr-Sasson, Alvaro Montealegre, Asha Bhalwal

Description: This course provides an in-depth exploration of the controversies surrounding Vaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (vNOTES). Since its introduction, vNOTES has gained widespread adoption among surgeons worldwide, combining the benefits of vaginal surgery with those of endoscopy. While this approach is commonly favored for straightforward procedures, its use in complex cases remains contentious. Additionally, the integration of robotic technology with vNOTES has been questioned, primarily due to the associated costs. The course will address these key controversies, supported by high-quality evidence and video presentations. Topics will include patient selection criteria, re-evaluating contraindications for vNOTES, surgical limitations, and the emerging role of robotic-assisted vNOTES. We will also provide recommended decision-making strategies for preoperative assessment, as well as tips and techniques for managing challenging intraoperative situations.

Learning Objectives: At the end of this course, the participant will be able to:

1. Objective Identify and understand the common controversies associated with vNOTES
2. Objective Familiarize with the relevant literature surrounding the controversies discussed
3. Objective Learn valuable tips and strategies to navigate and overcome the challenges associated with the controversies discussed

Course Outline

3:15 PM Welcome, Introduction and Course Overview

A. Montealegre

3:20 PM Challenging the Indications and Contraindications for vNOTES Surgery

A. Mohr-Sasson

3:35 PM Has the Time Have Come to Combine vNOTES With Robotic Approach?

A. Montealegre

3:50 PM Is vNOTES the Appropriate Surgical Approach for Every Surgeon and Every Pathology?

A. Bhalwal

4:05 PM Discussion Questions & Answers

3:15 PM Adjourn