Complications of peritoneoscopy. A survey of 1,455 examinations.

Abstract

The risks of peritoneoscopy are viewed chiefly in the light of the authors experience at the School of Gastroenterology in Barcelona Spain. The 3 main classes of complications each discussed in light of the literature result respectively after pneumoperitoneum after peritoneoscopy itself and after ancillary procedures (e.g. hemorrhage after biopsy of the liver). Since 1936 1455 peritoneoscopies have been performed at the School of Gastroenterology. Complications developed in 18 cases (1.2%). 2 deaths (.13%) resulted. Complications included severe subcutaneous emphysema pneumothorax intestinal puncture and perforation of the gallbladder. Several instances of hemorrhage occurred including hemorrhage at the site of introduction of the peritoneoscope and hermorrhage upon biopsy of the liver. Many complications of the pneumoperitoneum can be prevented by using special air insufflators.