Laparoscopic aortobifemoral bypass

Purpose: To determine the potential benefits of applying laparoscopic techniques for the intraabdominal insertion of aortofemoral grafts and to compare results with those of conventional surgery. Methods: Having previously demonstrated the feasibility of a totally laparoscopic aortofemoral bypass technique using carbon dioxide peritoneal insufflation in a porcine model, we now report our first human experience with this laparoscopic technique in a 49-year-old man. Results: The patient's postoperative course was marked by his minimal requirements for analgesia, early ambulation, and discharge from the hospital in the morning of the third postoperative day. Conclusions: The benefits of a laparoscopic approach to aortobifemoral bypass grafting in terms of financial savings and earlier rehabilitation in this patient was significant. This less-invasive procedure warrants further investigation.