Use of the surgical towel in colorectal hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS). Academic Article uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • The use of laparotomy pads or towels to displace the small intestine away from the operative site is a well-established technique in open surgery; however, its application is unfeasible or extremely challenging in standard laparoscopic surgery. We describe the use of standard surgical towels in hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS). A Pfannenstiel incision is made and a Gelport hand-access device is assembled. A sterilized surgical towel, 65 x 44 cm in size, is inserted via the Gelport, unfolded, and placed over the bowel loops laparoscopically with the assistance of the hand. The bowel loops are then housed gently in the towel and displaced away from of the operative site. HALS enables the easy insertion and handling of a large surgical towel inside the peritoneal cavity. The towel successfully retracts the small intestine, enabling the surgeon to concentrate the use of his or her hand on the targeted structures. This practical and inexpensive tip adds another advantageous component to the practice of colorectal HALS.

publication date

  • March 1, 2004

Research

keywords

  • Bedding and Linens
  • Colon
  • Digestive System Surgical Procedures
  • Laparoscopy
  • Rectum

Identity

Scopus Document Identifier

  • 1942454285

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1007/s00464-003-8173-2

PubMed ID

  • 15108693

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 18

issue

  • 3