A new insufflation needle with a special optical system for use in laparoscopic procedures.

A new insufflation needle with a special optical system consisting of a transparent, conical tip, to which an endoscope can be attached, allows perforation of the abdominal wall under direct vision. A video camera can be attached to the instrument, so that its progress through the abdominal wall can be observed on a monitor. The danger of damage to vessels and intra-abdominal organs associated with blind insertion of the insufflation needle is thus avoided. There is also no risk of insufflation of the properitoneal space because the exact position of the needle tip is known. Use of this new instrument could further improve the safety of laparoscopic procedures.