The laparoscopic sponge.
OBJECTIVE
Hemorrhage and spillage of enteric contents during laparoscopic surgery can be problematic and obscure the operative field. Although the suction device can often clear the field, we have found that use of a sponge is often more efficient and effective.


METHODS
An unrolled 4 x 4 sponge can be introduced down a 10-mm port without difficulty. The addition of a suture tied to one corner of the sponge allows easy retrieval of the sponge and eliminates the possibility of leaving the sponge in the abdomen.


CONCLUSIONS
The laparoscopic sponge is simply constructed and is easily introduced and retrieved through a trocar. It can be used to deal with a troublesome hemorrhage, either to put on direct pressure or to absorb blood. It can also be used as a blunt retractor and dissector. With the addition of the suture tail, it is quickly retrieved and cannot be forgotten within the abdomen.
Maccabee
D
D
Department of Surgery, Oregon Health Sciences University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., L223A, Portland, OR 97239-3098, USA. Maccabee@ohsu.edu
Sheppard
B C
BC
D016063:Blood Loss, Surgical; D004867:Equipment Design; D006488:Hemostasis, Surgical / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D015503:Surgical Sponges