Laparoscopic segmental intestinal resection.

There are numerous disease processes in the pediatric population that require segmental intestinal resection with primary anastomosis. These include intestinal strictures from necrotizing enterocolitis in neonates, resection of congenital lesions such as a Meckel's diverticulum or intestinal webs, and strictures from inflammatory bowel disease. Whereas the treatment of these lesions previously required a major laparotomy, they now can be approached using a minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approach. Techniques from laparoscopic intestinal mobilization with extracorporeal resection and anastomosis to complete intracorporeal resection and anastomosis have been successfully developed for pediatric patients. The benefits are similar to those achieved from other laparoscopic procedures and include decreased postoperative pain and morbidity, reduced postoperative hospitalization and faster return to normal activity. Early experience suggests that the minimally invasive approach is acceptable and, perhaps, favorable in the treatment of segmental intestinal disease in infants and children.