A safe and simple method for routine open access in laparoscopic procedures.
BACKGROUND
Access to the peritoneal cavity in laparoscopic procedures is generally achieved by means of a pneumoperitoneum, following introduction of a Veress needle. Because this procedure must be done blindly, it is not without visceral or vascular hazards. Therefore, we sought an alternative technique that might obviate these complications.


METHODS
In a series of 803 patients, a modified Hasson technique was used to obtain a pneumoperitoneum without risking the complications associated with the introduction of a Veress needle.


RESULTS
The modified Hasson technique proved to be feasible in all cases. No visceral or vascular complications resulted, but 10 patients had a transient serous discharge. Follow-up ranged between 5 and 52 months.


CONCLUSIONS
The modified Hasson technique should always be used in laparoscopic procedures.
Lafullarde
T
T
Academic Surgical Center Stuivenberg, Lange Beeldekensstraat 267, B-2060 Antwerp, Belgium.
Van Hee
R
R
Gys
T
T
D006801:Humans; D007431:Intraoperative Complications; D020706:Laparoscopes; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D011028:Pneumoperitoneum, Artificial / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*