title: Laparoscopic Removal of a Large Leiomyoma Using Airlift Gasless Laparoscopy
abstract: Some discrepancies still exist with regard to the efficacy of laparoscopic removal of large symptomatic leiomyomas. In our experience, when performing myomectomy, airlift gasless laparoscopy has several advantages. First, a small incision can be made, through which conventional surgical instruments (endoscopic equipment is not required) are inserted and the myomectomy is efficiently performed. Second, the large excised leiomyoma can be cut into strips easily with a conventional long knife and removed through a small abdominal incision. Third, sutures can be placed easily, and the surgeon can place fingers through a small surgical wound to palpate the organ and tie the knot directly. Fourth, high-pressure irrigation and large-volume suction devices can be used without fear of decompressing the pneumoperitoneum. Finally, the potential risks of metabolic and hemodynamic instability due to carbon dioxide insufflation to establish pneumoperitoneum are avoided.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, 5, Fu-Hsing Street, Kwei-Shan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, R.O.C.
authors.initials: FH
authors.lastname: Chang
authors.initials: YK
authors.lastname: Soon
authors.initials: CL
authors.lastname: Lee
authors.initials: YM
authors.lastname: Lai
authors.initials: HS
authors.lastname: Wang