THE REMOTE-CONTROL LAPAROSCOPIC BAG - A SIMPLE TECHNIQUE TO REMOVE INTRAABDOMINAL SPECIMENS

Background: To facilitate extraction and avoid intraabdominal spillage during laparoscopic removal of adnexal masses, various designs and si zes of endopouches (bags) have been used. We describe a simple techniq ue using a special laparoscopic bag that requires no additional instru ments to hold, open, or close the bag. Technique: The laparoscopic bag can be prepared from the sterile wrapping of disposable surgical item s (eg, suction tubing) and two long sutures. The bag is int-reduced th rough the cannula of the laparoscope and is unfurled. By manipulation of the two long sutures threaded through the neck of the bag, the surg eon can easily open and close it. Experience: We have performed this p rocedure ''in vitro'' on many occasions to ensure that the drawstring technique works. The laparoscopic bag has been used successfully in th ree patients undergoing oophorectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy. Our ex perience shows that this type of laparoscopic bag is easy to use and s afe, reduces operative time, and is cost effective. Because the bag ca n be large, operating inside the bag is also possible. Conclusion: Our drawstring design allows easy manipulation of a laparoscopic bag to f acilitate its opening and closure. (Obstet Gynecol 1998;92:622-3. (C) 1998 by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.).