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Laparoscopic surgery in middle- and low-income countries: gasless lift laparoscopic surgery

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Abstract

Introduction

Surgically treatable conditions are an increasing burden in low- and middle-income countries, and recent studies suggest they have overtaken the “big three” (malaria, tuberculosis and HIV) as a cause of mortality.

Aim

In this context, we have worked to modify standard laparoscopic equipment to allow laparoscopy in remote areas without support services such as bottled gases or disposable instruments.

Results

A simple and reliable system of gasless laparoscopy has been developed using robust reusable instruments, widening the potential availability of laparoscopic surgery in remote and rural areas.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that, using this equipment, appropriately trained surgeons can provide minimally invasive surgery in even the most remote locations.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. SEESHA Ministries, Surgical Services Intiative, Coimbatore, India

    J. Gnanaraj

  2. Honorary Reader in Surgery, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK

    M. Rhodes

  3. Department of Surgery, Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton, Somerset, UK

    M. Rhodes

Authors
  1. J. Gnanaraj
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  2. M. Rhodes
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to M. Rhodes.

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Disclosures

Michael Rhodes and Jesudian Gnanaraj have no conflict of interest and no relationships with any pharmaceutical or device company.

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Gnanaraj, J., Rhodes, M. Laparoscopic surgery in middle- and low-income countries: gasless lift laparoscopic surgery. Surg Endosc 30, 2151–2154 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00464-015-4433-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00464-015-4433-1

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