A simple technique of securing inferior epigastric vessels and repairing the rectus sheath at laparoscopic surgery

Abstract

Trauma to the inferior epigastric artery during insertion of ports for laparoscopic surgery can be associated with major hemorrhage. Several techniques have been developed to deal with this emergency, but most require special and expensive instrumentation that may not be readily available. We describe a simple and quick method to deal with this complication using only standard sutures and a laparoscopic needle holder. Two sutures with straight needles are inserted below laterally and medially to the vessels and pulled out via a contralateral port. The sutures are tied together and pulled back into the abdominal cavity and tied to secure the vessels. The procedure is repeated above the vessels to produce complete hemostasis. The technique also can be applied easily to repair the rectus sheath after using large trocars and cannulas and thereby prevent herniation.