A Technique for Localizing Perforated Duodenal Ulcer During Laparoscopic Repair

Laparoscopic repair of duodenal ulcer perforation has certain advantages over open repair. However, the conversion rate to open surgery is still high. The most common reason for conversion is inadequate localization of the ulcer perforation site during laparoscopy. Here, a technique is described which will aid in localizing the perforation, make suturing and repair easier, and helps in checking the integrity of the repair at the end of the procedure. This is done by compressing the gall bladder with an instrument like a laparoscopic fan retractor and simultaneously depressing the first part of the duodenum with another instrument. This results in bile flowing out through the perforation and simultaneously depressing the duodenum downward, making it more easily visible and making identification easier. Suturing is easier due to the liver also getting retracted simultaneously and more space being available consequently. Integrity of the anastomoses is also easily ascertained by this maneuver.