title: A 5-mm open-entry technique achieves safe, single-step, cosmetic laparoscopic entry.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The rare but serious complications of blind Veress needle insertion during laparoscopy include bowel and vascular injury. To reduce these risks, a novel method of open laparoscopy was introduced into our clinical practice, and its efficacy was evaluated.
  
  
  METHODS
  This is a retrospective evaluation of a novel 5-mm-open laparoscopic technique in a university hospital-based endoscopy practice in 65 consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopy with a single surgeon.
  
  
  RESULTS
  A 71% success rate was achieved using the 5-mm open-entry laparoscopic technique. No complications occurred during any of the laparoscopic procedures, but 29% reverted to a standard 5-mm Veress needle technique. The success of the open-entry technique was independent of prior abdominal surgery, subject age, or body mass index (BMI).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The 5-mm open-entry technique is safe, fast, and cosmetic. It is easily mastered and may be converted to a standard Veress needle technique if peritoneal entry is not achieved.
authors.affiliation: Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10019, USA. MDKeltz@aol.com
authors.forename: Martin D
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Keltz
authors.forename: Jennifer
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Lang
authors.forename: Inna
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Berin
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D005831:Genital Diseases, Female / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D020706:Laparoscopes; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome