The efficacy of laparoscopic procedures for the intestinal obstructions without a history of laparotomy

Laparoscopic surgery for the treatment of intestinal obstruction has been evolving. We report on fourteen intestinal obstruction patients without any history of previous surgery who underwent laparoscopic surgery. The usefulness of this surgical method is also reported. In all patients, the diagnosis was confirmed by precise laparoscopic observation and five patients were treated with a laparoscopic procedure. Although in nine patients the procedure was converted to open surgery, a suitable and minimal laparotomy incision could be decided under laparoscopic evaluation. In seven patients, laparoscopic extracorporeal partial ileostomy or sigmoidostomy were performed. Postoperative recovery of these patients was uneventful and fast, with favorable postsurgical outcomes. On review of our fourteen patients, we conclude that the laparoscopic approach is useful for the diagnosis and treatment of intestinal obstruction in patients without any history of previous surgery. (author)