LAPAROSCOPY WITHOUT USE OF THE VERESS NEEDLE - RESULTS IN A SERIES OF 1,600 PROCEDURES

Objective:: To describe a method of laparoscopy without use of the Veress needle and to analyze the associated complications. Design: We retrospectively reviewed all 1,600 laparoscopic procedures performed in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Nitra Hospital from Aug. 23, 1989, to Jan. 31, 1994. Material and Methods: Our laparoscopic techniques were outlined, and our complication rate was assessed and compared with that from the literature. Results: In the 1,600 procedures, 6 complications occurred (0.375%)-4 technical failures in extremely obese patients, 1 case of umbilical granuloma 2 months after the procedure, and 1 case of omental prolapse on the sixth postlaparoscopic day. Conclusion: Results from this series of procedures suggest that laparoscopy without use of the Veress needle is simple, safe, efficient, and easy to learn.