[Laparoscopic interventions in acute and chronic diverticulitis]

Since the beginning of 1993 until May 1994 in our hospital 25 patients were operated upon for diverticular disease. 16 patients required a laparoscopic assisted elective one-stage resection. One laparoscopic Hartmann's procedure was performed on account of a free perforation. 4 patients underwent laparoscopic reconstruction of the intestinal continuity after an Hartmann's resection. In 4 cases it was necessary to change to the conventional procedure.

the patient is placed in dorso-sacral position (modified lithotomy position) in order to allow transanal colonic access. 4 trocars are necessary. The linear stapler is used to transsect the sigmoid colon and to dissect the entire mesentery. The left lateral trocar incision is enlarged to remove the specimen. The intracorporeal double staple anastomosis is created by a circular stapler.

there were two wound infections, one postoperative bleeding and one small anastomotic leak. After the operation we observed all advantages of the laparoscopic procedure in form of less pain, earlier beginning of bowel movements, faster return to full diet and earlier hospital discharge. These positive results combined with the possibility of a standardized procedure encourage us to continue laparoscopic sigmoidectomy.