Laparoscopic morcellator-related injuries.
OBJECTIVE
To identify and summarize all electric morcellator-related injuries published in the medical literature.


METHODS
Systematic review (Canadian Task Force classification II-2).


METHODS
Databases.


METHODS
Articles on morcellator-related injuries published from 1992 through February 2002, plus additional sources of information.


METHODS
Search of MEDLINE and referencing of the FDA device report database.


RESULTS
We were unable to locate any references to morcellator-related visceral injuries in the medical literature. Of 17 cases identified from the FDA database, 3 were excluded based on the trivial nature of the event (e.g., instrument did not function). The remaining 14 visceral injuries were to small and large bowel (11), kidney (2), pancreas (1), and major vascular structures (3). Identification of the complication was immediate in 10 patients, but was not until 4 days postoperatively in 1 woman. Three patients died. No device manufacturer or surgical specialty was responsible for a preponderance of the injuries.


CONCLUSIONS
These potentially fatal complications are unreported in the medical literature.
Milad
Magdy P
MP
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA.
Sokol
Eric
E
D016208:Databases, Factual; D004864:Equipment and Supplies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007431:Intraoperative Complications / Q000453:epidemiology*; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013525:Surgical Instruments; D014481:United States; D014486:United States Food and Drug Administration; D014781:Viscera / Q000293:injuries