[Laparoscopy in the newborn infant--indications and procedure]

The indications and technical features of minimal invasive surgery, which is of particular interest in neonates, are being discussed. Thirty-three laparoscopies had been performed as of 1997. The youngest child was 2 days old; the smallest one weighted 2150 g. The most frequent indications were clarification of cholestasis, cystic masses, pyloromyotomies and sigmoid resections. Three conversions were necessary (two choledochal cysts, splenic torsion). Complications were one postoperative incisional hernia and two rectal stenoses after sigmoid resection.

Laparoscopy can even be performed in newborns and meets the requirements of minimally invasive surgery.