title: Laparoscopically assisted colpotomy with the Pelosi illuminator and Visiport trocar system.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To describe a technique for laparoscopically assisted colpotomy.
  
  
  METHODS
  The Pelosi endoscopic illuminator and Visiport trocar system were combined to perform visually guided transvaginal colpotomy. Thirty-five consecutive laparoscopic gynecologic cases necessitating cul-de-sac entry were approached with this technique.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The technique was performed successfully in all 35 cases without complications or technical difficulties and with an average colpotomy time of 3.5 minutes. Indications for colpotomy included removal of laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy specimens, myomata, large adnexal cysts and large tubal pregnancy.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This colpotomy technique is quick, efficient and easy to perform. Advantages include retention of pneumoperitoneum, facilitated transvaginal insertion of instrumentation to remove pelvic masses, avoidance of an electrosurgical or laser incision, and complete visual control, which minimizes the possibility of traumatic injury to bowel and other pelvic structures.
authors.affiliation: Pelosi Women's Medical Center, Bayonne, NJ 07002, USA.
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Pelosi
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Pelosi
mesh_terms: D020681:Colposcopes; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005831:Genital Diseases, Female / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D020706:Laparoscopes; D008029:Lighting; D011247:Pregnancy; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014621:Vagina / Q000601:surgery*