Open to laparoscopic conversion in hemoperitoneum of unknown origin.

PURPOSE: Demonstrating the potential, in spite of the current trend, of closing an open emergency surgical procedure and to convert it to a minimally invasive approach.

METHODS

Case report of an open converted to a laparoscopic approach in an emergency setting for hemoperitoneum of unknown origin.

RESULTS

A 28-year-old-female patient was transported to the operating room for suspected acute appendicitis. Through McBurney's incision, hemoperitoneum was found. She was hemodynamically stable. The open incision was closed and a laparoscopic approach established. The diagnosis was a ruptured right ectopic pregnancy with mild hemoperitoneum. After a laparoscopic salpingectomy, her recovery was uneventful.

CONCLUSIONS

For selected cases, the conversion of an open procedure to a laparoscopic approach offers a real benefit for the patient, avoiding a large laparotomy and its associated morbidity.