Published in:
01-02-2012 | Tips&Tricks
Open to laparoscopic conversion in hemoperitoneum of unknown origin
Published in: European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery | Issue 1/2012
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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.