A 5-mm open-entry technique achieves safe, single-step, cosmetic laparoscopic entry.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The rare but serious complications of blind Veress needle insertion during laparoscopy include bowel and vascular injury. To reduce these risks, a novel method of open laparoscopy was introduced into our clinical practice, and its efficacy was evaluated. METHODS: This is a retrospective evaluation of a novel 5-mm-open laparoscopic technique in a university hospital-based endoscopy practice in 65 consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopy with a single surgeon. RESULT: A 71% success rate was achieved using the 5-mm open-entry laparoscopic technique. No complications occurred during any of the laparoscopic procedures, but 29% reverted to a standard 5-mm Veress needle technique. The success of the open-entry technique was independent of prior abdominal surgery, subject age, or body mass index (BMI). CONCLUSION: The 5-mm open-entry technique is safe, fast, and cosmetic. It is easily mastered and may be converted to a standard Veress needle technique if peritoneal entry is not achieved.