Management of Laparoscopic Bladder Injuries

Abstract

Injuries to the urinary system have been reported in up to 8% of minimally invasive gynecologic surgeries. Intraoperative recognition of a bladder injury allows for immediate repair and decreased postoperative morbidity rates. Although laparoscopic repair of such injuries requires advanced surgical skills, it affords the patient the benefits of minimally invasive surgery. In addition, laparoscopic visualization of the intravesical anatomy may help to delineate the relationship of the ureters to the bladder injury, thus avoiding further complication. This article will review the techniques and devices used to facilitate laparoscopic cystotomy repair.