Hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS): a useful technique for complex laparoscopic abdominal procedures

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Advanced laparoscopic abdominal surgery is common but challenging.
• Loss of tactile sensation in totally laparoscopic techniques increases complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery technique for complex abdominal procedures.
• To highlight the benefits of maintaining tactile sensation during surgery.

Main Methods:

• A technique allowing a surgeon's hand into the abdominal cavity while maintaining pneumoperitoneum.
• Utilizing the inserted hand for exploration, dissection, and identification of structures.

Main Results:

• The technique facilitates rapid exploration and methodical dissection.
• Maintenance of tactile sensation leads to expeditious procedure performance.
• Favorable outcomes reported from initial experiences with this approach.

Conclusions:

• Hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery is a valuable approach for complex abdominal procedures.
• Restoring tactile sensation improves surgical efficiency and safety.
• This technique offers advantages over traditional totally laparoscopic methods.