Laparoscopy without use of the Veress needle: results in a series of 1,600 procedures.
OBJECTIVE
To describe a method of laparoscopy without use of the Veress needle and to analyze the associated complications.


METHODS
We retrospectively reviewed all 1,600 laparoscopic procedures performed in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Nitra Hospital from Aug. 23, 1989, to Jan. 31, 1994.


METHODS
Our laparoscopic techniques were outlined, and our complication rate was assessed and compared with that from the literature.


RESULTS
In the 1,600 procedures, 6 complications occurred (0.375%)--4 technical failures in extremely obese patients, 1 case of umbilical granuloma 2 months after the procedure, and 1 case of omental prolapse on the sixth postlaparoscopic day.


CONCLUSIONS
Results from this series of procedures suggest that laparoscopy without use of the Veress needle is simple, safe, efficient, and easy to learn.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nitra Hospital, Slovakia.
M
M
Mlyncek
A
A
Truska
J
J
Garay
D005260:Female; D006176:Gynecology; D006801:Humans; D020706:Laparoscopes; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D009339:Needles; D011028:Pneumoperitoneum, Artificial / Q000379:methods; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012189:Retrospective Studies