Laparoscopic surgery without pneumoperitoneum. A preliminary report

• Published in: Surgical endoscopy Vol. 8; no. 5; p. 382
• Main Authors: Tsoi, E K, Smith, R S, Fry, W R, Henderson, V J, Organ, Jr, C H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Germany 01.05.1994
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic - methods; Female; Humans; Laparoscopy - methods; Male; Middle Aged; Pneumoperitoneum, Artificial
• ISSN: 0930-2794
• DOI: 10.1007/BF00642436

Laparoscopic surgery using pneumoperitoneum to create an operating field is known to have cardiopulmonary side effects. Conventional laparoscopic techniques require operating in a sealed environment. In July 1992, we initiated an investigation of the use of an electric-powered abdominal-wall lifter to expose an operating field. In our preliminary study, we have successfully completed 16 of 20 cases (80%) using this method of exposure. One trocar-related small-bowel injury was recognized immediately and repaired uneventfully. Two patients with dense adhesions made laparoscopic cholecystectomy impossible. One case of laparoscopic cholecystectomy was completed by conversion to pneumoperitoneum. Conventional instruments can be used through small incisions. Digital examination of abdominal contents can be achieved through the periumbilical incision or through other small incisions with the guidance of this retractor; this is superior to pneumoperitoneum since the surgeon can use more than just visual examination of intraabdominal pathology in laparoscopic surgery.