Myringotomy knife for pyloromyotomy.

Laparoscopic pyloromyotomy is a common procedure for treating infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. Since 2006, we have been using miniature otolaryngologic instruments for pyloromyotomy due to a shortage of arthroscopic blades in our Medical Center. The purpose of this study is to determine the safety, efficacy, and cosmetic results obtained from the use of fine otolaryngologic instruments in pyloromyotomy. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 10 male infants who underwent pyloromyotomy during the years 2006 to 2007, using a fine otolaryngologic knife (myringotomy knife). Median operation time was 23 minutes, no complications were observed, all patients were discharged within 24 hours, and the scars were barely visible in 4 weeks' time. We are proposing an alternative technique for the classic pyloromyotomy method that looks promising. Further studies are needed.