Simple technique for rectus sheath closure after laparoscopic surgery using straight needles, with review of the literature

The increasing use of laparoscopic surgery with more complicated procedures means that the use of multiple and larger ports is becoming commonplace. O ne well-known risk associated with the use of ports more than 10 mm in diam eter is the development of an incisional hernia unless the deep fascia is c losed adequately. This complication is estimated to follow 3% of major lapa roscopic procedures, Closure of trocar incisions is therefore recommended f or large sites. We have developed a closure technique using standard suture s with straight needles, a 5-mm laparoscopic grasper, and a 4-mm hysterosco pe which we have found simple and fast, with the added advantage of low cos t.