Laparoscopic approach to small-bowel obstruction.

BACKGROUND

Small-bowel obstruction poses both a diagnostic and a therapeutic challenge. The laparoscopic approach may assist in determining the cause of the obstruction and in many cases to treat the obstructing lesion.

METHODS

For the last 2 years, we have been approaching patients with small-bowel obstruction laparoscopically.

RESULTS

We have found this technique to be successful as the definitive treatment in more than half of the cases.

CONCLUSION

The laparoscopic approach should be the modality of choice for most, if not all, cases of small-bowel obstruction in which there is an indication for exploration.