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Trans-umbilical Intragastric Surgery Using Two Alexis Wound Retractors for a Large Trichobezoar in a Four-Year-Old
Shojiro Hanaki1, Shuichi Katayama1, Soichi Nakada1
1Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Kurashiki Central Hospital, Kurashiki, JPN.
Insights
Trans-umbilical intragastric surgery offers a safe and cosmetically pleasing method for removing large trichobezoars in pediatric patients. This minimally invasive approach reduces the risk of surgical complications.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
Background:
- Trichobezoars, indigestible masses in the stomach, pose significant challenges for endoscopic removal and often necessitate surgical intervention.
- Traditional surgical methods for trichobezoar removal can be invasive and lead to notable postoperative complications.
Observation:
- A novel trans-umbilical intragastric surgical approach was employed for the removal of a large trichobezoar in a pediatric patient.
- The procedure utilized two Alexis wound retractors to facilitate intragastric access and manipulation.
Findings:
- The trans-umbilical intragastric surgery resulted in the successful removal of the pediatric trichobezoar.
- This technique proved to be safe, effective, and cosmetically advantageous, avoiding the need for specialized instruments or complex surgical maneuvers.
Implications:
- This minimally invasive technique presents a viable and aesthetically favorable alternative for managing large gastric trichobezoars in children.
- The approach shows potential for reducing the incidence of postoperative complications, including wound infections and intra-abdominal abscesses, compared to conventional surgical methods.
Abstract:
Trichobezoars are difficult to remove endoscopically and often require surgery. We performed trans-umbilical intragastric surgery using two Alexis wound retractors with successful results in a pediatric patient with a trichobezoar. This method is a safe and cosmetically favorable option for the removal of large trichobezoars and does not require special techniques or instruments. It also contributes to the reduction of postoperative complications such as wound infection and intra-abdominal abscess.
