Laparoscopic adhesiolysis for small bowel obstruction

The relatively new field of endoscopic surgery shows much promise and allows alternative treatment options. With increasing numbers of surgeons gaining experience with this technique, new approaches to old conditions are being reported. We present the case of a young female with partial small bowel obstruction secondary to an adhesive band; the condition was readily diagnosed using the laparoscope and treated. We show that in appropriate patient selection, this method is a viable and easily performed alternative to formal laparotomy.