[Technique of laparoscopic descendo-rectostomy for reconstruction of intestinal continuity after Hartmann operation]

Reestablishing bowel continuity subsequent to sigma resection with terminal descendostomy and blind closure of the rectum (Hartmann procedure) by a descendo-rectostomy (DR) is well suited for a laparoscopic approach. One part of the operation is performed extracorporally, and with the laparoscopic operation there is no need to consider radical tumor surgery or staging rules. We demonstrate our techniques for laparoscopic DR. - Operational steps. - A. conventionally: complete dissection of the descendo-stoma, insertion of a 29 or 31 mm circular stapler head secured by a purse string suture and repositioning of the colon into the abdomen; blunt dissection of reachable intra-abdominal adhesions with a finger, and placement of a 10-mm umbilical trocar using palpation; air tight closure of the abdominal wall at the original stoma site. B. laparoscopically: upon creation of a CO2 pneumoperitoneum, placement of two additional 10 mm trocars; adhesiolysis of the pelvis; preparation of the blind rectal stump; transanal insertion of the circular stapler and perforation of the rectal stump; bringing down the proximal colon into the pelvis (possible need to mobilise the splenic flexure); reconnecting the stapler head with the instrument and firing the stapled anastomosis. - The postoperative period was uneventful. Using a laparascopic approach for a DR following Hartmann's procedure is an attractive and viable method to reestablish bowel continuity.