How to prevent complications of open laparoscopy.

Infraumbilical minilaparotomy as a substitute for needle and trocar puncture continues to attract gynecologists for safety reasons. Although the open entry technique should eliminate aortic and iliac vessel injuries, other complications are occurring. In September 1984 a survey of 18 board-certified gynecologists who had performed a total of 10,840 open laparoscopies revealed 18 instances of wound infection and 6 cases of bowel laceration. Some features of surgical technique can minimize the risks of open laparoscopy.