The suprapubic cruciate incision for laparoscopic-assisted microceliotomy.

OBJECTIVES

To introduce cruciate microceliotomy for performing conventional open surgery maneuvers at laparoscopy without conversion to standard laparotomy.

METHODS

Retrospective review of all pelvic operations performed by this method by a single surgical team at one institution from 1993 through 1996.

RESULTS

We found the cruciate incision to provide excellent exposure for the performance of extensive uterine suture-reconstruction, morcellation, tubal microsurgery, and bowel surgery with excellent cosmetic and convalescent results in a series of 94 patients. No wound-related complications were noted. Postoperative analgesic requirements averaged 4.1 oxycodone/acetaminophen tablets per day, and hospital stay averaged 36 hours.

CONCLUSION

In our experience, cruciate microceliotomy represents a useful, minimally-invasive adjunct for the performance of open surgical maneuvers at laparoscopy.