Laparoscopic Entry via the DE-ALWIS METHOD

Despite the rapid advances in laparoscopic surgery in the past 2 decades the initial entry still accounts for approximately 40% to 50% of laparoscopic complications and should be considered the most dangerous step of a laparoscopic procedure. In this review, the authors share a technique for initial umbilical entry, and provide alternative entry sites in cases where umbilical entry is comtraindicated. Rev Obstet Gynecol. 2009; 2(3):193-198 doi; 10.3909/riog0088. Laparoscopy for diagnostic purposes to a modality for minor and major surgical procedures, had been advancing rapidly over the last 3 decades. The initial entry still accounts for about 40-50% of laparoscopic complications and is the most dangerous step of this surgical procedure [1, 2]. Laparoscopic entry using a veres needle followed by a blind insertion of a sharp trocar is the common method used by gynaecologists [3-5]. There is no concensious as to which laparascopic entry is superior and the common recommendation is use the entry methods with which the surgeons feel comfortable [6]. Umbilical entry is not suitable in certain instances, such as previous midline abdominal incision, previous umbilical hernia surgery, previous pelvic peritonitis and so forth, due to the presence of pelvic adhesions. An open surgery does not guarantee against a visceral injury [7].

Laparoscopy After Previous Laparotomy

Following the abdominal surgery, extensive adhesions often occur and they can cause difficulties during laparoscopic operations. However, previous laparotomy is not considered to be a contraindication for laparoscopy. The aim of this study is to present that an insertion of Veres needle in the region of umbilicus is a safe method for creating a pneumoperitoneum for laparoscopic operations after previous laparotomy. In the last three years, we have performed 144 laparoscopic operations in patients that previously underwent one or two laparotomies. Pathology of digestive system, genital organs, Cesarean Section or abdominal war injuries were the most common causes of previouslaparotomy. During those operations or during entering into abdominal cavity we have not experienced any complications, while in 7 patients we performed conversion to laparotomy following the diagnostic laparoscopy. In all patients an insertion of Veres needle and trocar insertion in the umbilical region was performed, namely a technique of closed laparoscopy. Not even in one patient adhesions in the region of umbilicus were found, and no abdominal organs were injured.