Laparoscopy in a small community free-standing surgicenter

Two thousand nine hundred twenty-four laparoscopies for both sterilization and diagnosis were performed between 1972 and 1984 in a free-standing surgicenter in a community of 40,000 people. All procedures were performed by seven board-certified obstetrician-gynecologists, and all anesthesia was administered by a partnership of board-certified anesthesiologists. The gynecologic and anesthesia techniques used in these procedures are reviewed, as well as the results and complications that resulted. The excellent outcome and low complication rate suggest that in many small communities gynecologic laparoscopy can be safe and efficient when performed in a free-standing, ambulatory, surgical facility.