Vena cava injuries during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Abstract

Two instances of vena cava injury occurring during insertion of a new trocar for laparoscopic surgery are presented. The mechanism of injury in each case was identical. These injuries are extremely rare, and fortunately both patients survived. Any new instrument that is purported to be an improvement over existing ones should be critically evaluated so that needless and unnecessary injuries such as these can be avoided.