Abstract
Background: Progress in laparoscopic surgery and the employment of minimally invasive techniques have led to the emergence of a new branch in this field, laparoscopic endoluminal surgery (LES).
Methods: LES encompasses all surgical procedures that involve intentional trocar or instrument penetration into the lumen of the gut in order to perform a surgical procedure. The integrity of the organ is preserved except for the small enterotomy sites and the operated area. The procedure is technically demanding and requires sound endoscopic skills.
Results: The experience in LES has primarily involved the stomach and right colon for two reasons. First, these organs have a larger volume/surface ratio in the gut; therefore, they are accessible for the endoluminal instruments. Second, even limited resection of the stomach or colon can potentially carry a significant morbidity. LES minimizes the extent of this resection.
Conclusions: In this paper we review recent developments in LES, discuss the technical aspects of the procedure, and recommend its applicability.
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Spivak, H., Hunter, J. Endoluminal surgery. Surg Endosc 11, 321–325 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1007/s004649900355
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s004649900355