ZEAL: “Z” ending abdominal laparoscopy - a simple and effective technique for port insertion

Abstract

Up to 50% of complications at a laparoscopic procedure occur at port insertion. Thus, safe and strategic port placement remains the key to obtaining acceptable results at laparoscopy. While several methods have been discussed in the literature, none have been seen as a benchmark. In this paper, we describe a simple method of laparoscopic port introduction that follows a path resembling the English letter’ Z’. We have found this technique to be advantageous in many ways. Apart from being safe and effective, it is easy to learn and ergonomically advantageous with the potential to minimize the incidence of port-site herniation. We have used it successfully on 7500 occasions over the past seven years without any short/long-term complications. Hence, it could be recommended for routine use. Such a method is yet to be reported.