Laparoscopy versus laparotomy: comparison of adhesion-formation after bowel resection in a canine model.

AIM

The purpose of the study was to compare adhesions following laparoscopic and conventional operations.

METHODS

In 14 dogs cecal resection and a deserosation of the abdominal wall were performed laparoscopically (n = 7) or by laparotomy (n = 7). After 8 days all dogs were reexamined and the adhesions were quantified by computer-aided measurements. The significance of any differences were tested using Student's t test.

RESULTS

The extent of adhesions after laparoscopy (630 +/- 360 mm2) and after laparotomy (3,300 +/- 1,007 mm2) differed significantly (p < 0.0001). Extensive adhesions to the abdominal incision and interenteric adhesions were found after conventional operations. Identical manipulations, such as cecal resection or deserosation of the lateral wall, led to the same frequency and extent of adhesions in both operation groups.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic procedures are associated with significantly less adhesions in comparison to conventional operations. Therefore the risk of adhesion-related complications should be reduced after laparoscopic operations.