Laparoscopic infracolic necrosectomy for infected pancreatic necrosis

Infected pancreatic necrosis carries a high morbidity and mortality from sepsis and multisystem organ failure. Following confirmation of the infection by CT-guided fine needle aspiration, treatment consists of broad spectrum antibiotics (imipenim-cilastin) followed by emergency open (laparotomy) digital necrosectomy and insertion of drains for postoperative lavage with hyperosmolar dialysate as advocated by Beger et al. This video shows an alternative laparoscopic technique to open necrosectomy and has been used in Dundee since 1994. After elevation of the transverse colon, the lesser sac is opened through the root of the transverse colon between the middle and left colic vessels. The necrosectomy is accomplished from inside the lesser sac under vision with a combination of pulsed irrigation and graspers. On completion of the necrosectomy, two large drains are inserted into the lesser sac for postoperative irrigation. The experience with this technique has been favorable with a patient survival of 85%.