Hand-assist laparoscopic surgery for the gynecologic surgeon.
BACKGROUND
Hand assist laparoscopy (HALS) is a minimally invasive technique which allows for the placement of the surgeon's non-dominant hand through a hand-port device while maintaining pneumoperitoneum. There is no standardization of this procedure and it is rarely used in gynecology.


METHODS
The multidisciplinary team of authors, with experience in minimally invasive pelvic surgery, has developed a practical approach performing HALS over several years. Here we present our technique.


CONCLUSIONS
There are several roles for HALS in the world of gynecology and pelvic surgery. Further experience will help improve upon a standard technique.
Brotherton
Joy
J
Celebration Women's Center for Pelvic Health, Celebration, Florida, USA. joy_brotherton@Hotmail.com
McCarus
Steven
S
Redan
Jay
J
Jones
Kathy Y
KY
Kim
John C
JC
D005260:Female; D013509:Gynecologic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D006225:Hand; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D011028:Pneumoperitoneum, Artificial