Minilaparoscopic cystectomy and appendectomy in late second trimester

Area of Science:

• Minimally invasive surgery
• Obstetric surgery
• Gynecologic surgery

Background:

• Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy and appendectomy are common in early pregnancy.
• Performing both procedures in advanced gestation is infrequently reported.
• This study explores a minilaparoscopic approach for these combined procedures in late second-trimester pregnancy.

Observation:

• A 24-week pregnant patient presented with acute abdominal pain.
• Microlaparoscopy with ultrasound guidance was used for safe trocar insertion.
• The patient underwent successful minilaparoscopic ovarian cystectomy and appendectomy.

Findings:

• Postoperative premature contractions were managed with tocolytics.
• The pregnancy continued to term, resulting in a healthy baby born via Cesarean delivery at 41 weeks.
• No serious sequelae were observed in the mother or neonate.

Implications:

• Minilaparoscopic surgery is a viable option for managing gynecologic and appendiceal pathology in advanced pregnancy.
• This technique offers a potentially safer alternative to open surgery.
• Further research can validate the safety and efficacy of this approach in a larger patient cohort.