INTRAOPERATIVE AND LAPAROSCOPIC ULTRASOUND

The efficacy and applicability of using intraoperative ultrasound for abdominal operations are addressed in this article. Intraoperative ult rasound is a powerful tool which enables the surgeon to identify and t reat lesions, and is invaluable for accurately staging patients with i ntra abdominal malignancy. Laparoscopic ultrasound probes extend the c apacity to perform the same diagnostic and treatment options during la paroscopic abdominal operations as are available for procedures done v ia celiotomy. The extent of such experience to date is described.