Small bowel herniation through subumbilical port site following laparoscopic surgery at the time of reversal of anesthesia

Incisional hernias through laparoscopic trocar sites are unusual complications of laparoscopy. Two cases of small bowel herniation at subumbilical port site occurred at the time of withdrawal of the trocar sheath at the end of the laparoscopic procedure are reported. The herniations were precipitated by the coughing movements of the patients as a result of too early reversal of the general anesthesia. Awareness of the complication, precaution at time of sheath withdrawal and a well-timed reversal of the general anesthesia are important in avoiding such a complication. Copyright (C) 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel.