OBJECTIVE: To report the first known and documented laparoscopic hernia repair onboard an aircraft carrier (USS Abraham Lincoln). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We present a case report of a 23-year-old healthy male seen in our Medical Department in pain with a clear mass on the right groin area. The sailor was scheduled for elective repair using a single-chip, 0 degree laparoscope from Stryker Company. RESULTS: Laparoscopic hernia repair was performed with complete recovery and immediate return to his usual duties onboard the aircraft carrier. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopy is not a new concept in surgery, but the performance of this surgical modality onboard a nuclear warship is a landmark event that will maximize naval operational readiness.
OBJECTIVE: To report the first known and documented laparoscopic hernia repair onboard an aircraft carrier (USS Abraham Lincoln). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We present a case report of a 23-year-old healthy male seen in our Medical Department in pain with a clear mass on the right groin area. The sailor was scheduled for elective repair using a single-chip, 0 degree laparoscope from Stryker Company. RESULTS: Laparoscopic hernia repair was performed with complete recovery and immediate return to his usual duties onboard the aircraft carrier. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopy is not a new concept in surgery, but the performance of this surgical modality onboard a nuclear warship is a landmark event that will maximize naval operational readiness.