Transumbilical retrieval of surgical specimens through a multichannel port

Laparoscopic surgery is often used to excise adnexal masses; however, the retrieval of specimens such as large cystic masses through conventional 5- or 10-mm ports is difficult and time-consuming. We compared outcomes between conventional laparoscopic surgery for adnexal masses and transumbilical specimen retrieval through a multichannel port during single- or 2-port laparoscopy.

A total of 341 patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery for adnexal masses from November 2006 to December 2010 were included. The patients were divided into 2 groups: group I consisted of 249 patients who underwent conventional laparoscopy, and group II consisted of 92 patients who underwent single- or 2-port laparoscopy using a multichannel port. The clinical characteristics and operative outcomes of the 2 groups were compared.

The mean operation time was 51.8 ± 21.5 minutes in group I and 57.2 ± 23.9 minutes in group II. The mean specimen retrieval time was longer in group I (2.9 ± 4.0 minutes) than in group II (2.2 ± 1.8 minutes). Endoscopic bag rupture during specimen retrieval occurred in 11 patients in group I and in no patients in group II.

The transumbilical retrieval of surgical specimens through a multichannel port with a wound retractor was safe and did not result in leakage of the cystic contents. This technique reduced the specimen retrieval time, especially for large masses. However, the mean operation time was not shortened with this procedure, because of the learning period and the time required to prepare the umbilical multichannel port.