Laparoscopic assisted reconstructive surgery

Purpose: We describe the use of laparoscopy to assist in performing complex pediatric reconstructive cases with the goals of improved cosmesis, and li mited postoperative morbidity and adhesion formation. Materials and Methods: Eight patients a mean age of 13.4 years underwent 8 laparoscopic assisted reconstructive procedures at our institution from Jun e 1995 to February 1998. The group consisted of 5 patients with spina bifid a, 1 with sacral agenesis, 1 with classic bladder exstrophy and 1 with blad der dysfunction secondary to posterior urethral valves. Information was obt ained via personal communication and review of the hospital records. Results: Eight successful laparoscopic assisted procedures were performed, including bladder augmentation and an appendiceal Mitrofanoff procedure in 4 cases as well as tapered ileal Mitrofanoff and Malone antegrade continenc e enema procedures in 1, and bladder augmentation, appendiceal Mitrofanoff and antegrade continence enema procedure, gastrocystoplasty removal, ileal augmentation and an appendiceal Mitrofanoff procedure, and an antegrade con tinence enema procedure in 1 each. The laparoscopic component of these oper ations included extensive mobilization of the right colon in all patients a nd complete appendiceal harvesting in 2. Reconstruction was then completed through a Pfannenstiel incision in 4 patients, previous low midline scar in 2 and a small midline incision in 2. Drains were placed via existing troca r sites and open incisions were carried through other sites whenever possib le. Continent stomas were matured through a trocar site in all 8 cases. Fin al cosmesis was excellent. Operative time was comparable to that of similar open procedures and intraoperative blood loss was minimal. Conclusions: Laparoscopy may be used as a successful adjunct in complex ped iatric reconstructive procedures to minimize disfiguring and morbid upper a bdominal incisions, and decrease the risk of future adhesions.