Safe access to laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with previous periumbilical incsions: new approach to avoid entry related bowel injury.

BACKGROUND

Patients with prior abdominal surgeries are at higher risk of intra-peritoneal adhesions near the trocar entry site, increasing the likelihood of organ injury during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). This study evaluates a novel technique where the epigastric trocar is inserted first, after creating pneumoperitoneum, to allow safe dissection of adhesions under direct vision before placing the umbilical trocar.

METHODS

This prospective study included 244 patients with symptomatic uncomplicated gallstone disease and a history of previous abdominal surgeries extending to the umbilicus. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: Group I (n = 98) underwent traditional umbilical trocar-first LC using the Hasson technique, while Group II (n = 146) received LC using the epigastric trocar-first approach. Operative time, complications, and conversion rates were analyzed.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the demographics between both groups. The epigastric trocar-first approach significantly reduced total operative time (41.6 ± 7.7 min vs. 46.8 ± 8.8 min, p = 0.031) and small bowel injury rates (p = 0.006). Otherwise, intraoperative complications were comparable. Conversion to open surgery was lower in Group II (2.1% vs. 8.2%, p = 0.012). Postoperative pain at 6 h was significantly lower in Group II (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The epigastric trocar-first approach, offers a safer alternative for patients with prior abdominal surgeries when undergoing LC. This approach is safe; minimizes bowel injury risk, reduces conversion rates, and enhances patient recovery. This approach may also be beneficial in other laparoscopic procedures requiring safe entry in patients with prior abdominal surgeries. Further studies are recommended to validate its broader clinical application.