Research

The use of the 1 mm laparoscope to assist in port insertion in pelvic oncological surgery

Philippa Sangster and Thomas EJ Ind

Department of Gynaecological Oncology, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Fulham Road, London, SW3 6JJ, UK

author email corresponding author email

International Seminars in Surgical Oncology 2006, 3:9doi:10.1186/1477-7800-3-9

Published:	3 April 2006

Abstract

Background

A 1 mm minilaparoscope (Lifeline Biotechnoligies, Florida, USA) was assessed for aiding port site insertions.

Methods

Ten consecutive patients having laparoscopic procedures in a gynaecological oncology unit were included. Minilaparoscopy was feasible in all cases and was used to insert the umbilical port under direct vision in all patients. In one case, a thick band of abdominal adhesions was identified and a further lateral port site was inserted to aid their dissection.

Results

The minilaparoscope correctly identified all 10 patients with peritoneal disease and identified all patients who were suitable for debulking procedures.

Conclusion

Minilaparoscopy with the 1 mm endoscope appears to be safe and accurate and we feel that it has a place in helping the surgeon identify adhesions and peritoneal disease as well as assisting further port site insertion safely and with minimal complications.