Laparoscopic approach in adhesive small bowel obstruction

Abstract

Intestinal obstruction due to adhesions is a major healthcare problem in children (Festen 1982; Janik et al. 1981). Most adhesive obstructions occur after appendicectomy (Becmeur et al. 1997) and measures to decrease the incidence would be very welcome. Endoscopic surgery instead of classic open surgery seems to be such a measure. Reiterative surgery increases the likelihood of developing repeat obstruction but by approaching the problem of adhesive obstruction endoscopically the incidence of reiterative obstruction may well be less than after open surgery (Operative Laparoscopy Study Group 1991). Moreover the laparoscopic approach leaves less scarring and allows for a much quicker recovery. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2008.