Abstract
The use of specimen retrieval bags in elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies remains a customary practice intended to reduce surgical site infections. The lack of supporting evidence suggests that specimen bags may not be necessary. Thus, we present an alternative approach without the use of disposable instruments to reduce excessive healthcare costs while maintaining comparable surgical outcomes.
Highlights
Cholecystectomy is one of the most common abdominal surgeries in the United States, with approximately 850,000 cases performed annually [1]
The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) guidelines leave the use of a specimen retrieval bag in elective cholecystectomies up to the discretion of the operating surgeon [3]
We present an alternative approach to gallbladder removal in laparoscopic cholecystectomy without the need for a specimen retrieval bag
Summary
Cholecystectomy is one of the most common abdominal surgeries in the United States, with approximately 850,000 cases performed annually [1]. We present an alternative approach to gallbladder removal in laparoscopic cholecystectomy without the need for a specimen retrieval bag. To begin extraction from the abdominal cavity, a 5 mm atraumatic, or toothed, grasper secures the gallbladder near the cystic duct or neck of the gallbladder (Figure 1). How to cite this article Heard M, Rehrig J, Colavita D (April 12, 2020) An Alternative Technique in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomies: Removal Without a Specimen Bag. Cureus 12(4): e7655. The tip of the grasper holding the cystic duct (or neck of gallbladder) is aimed toward and placed into the internal opening of the umbilical port (Figure 2A). If intraoperative decompression of the fundus occurs, the surgeon should remove the gallbladder by grasping the fundus instead of the neck or cystic duct. After the gallbladder exits the abdominal cavity through the incision site, the operation is completed in its usual fashion
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
