Diagnostic laparoscopy (DL) is an increasingly used modality when approaching penetrating abdominal trauma (PAT). Trauma surgeons can utilize this minimally invasive technique to quickly assess for injury in hemodynamically stable patients. DL with a confirmed injury can be repaired through therapeutic laparoscopy (TL) or conversion to exploratory laparotomy (EL). This study analyzes the use of laparoscopy as a first-line therapy for hemodynamically stable patients with PAT.

Data were reviewed of patients presenting with PAT between December 2006 and September 2016. A retrospective analysis was conducted to analyze demographics, baseline presentations, treatment protocols and outcomes.

A total of 56 patients with PAT were initially treated with laparoscopy. Injuries included stab wounds (n = 48) and gunshot wounds (n = 8). Patients were divided into three groups: DL, DL to TL, and DL to EL. Ten patients (17.9%) required conversion to laparotomy (DL to EL). Of the 46 patients who did not require conversion, 33 patients (71.7%) underwent DL, while 13 patients (28.3%) required TL (DL to TL). There were no differences in postoperative complication rates between the groups (p = 0.565). The mean lengths of hospital stay for DL, DL to TL, and DL to EL were 3.1, 2.7, and 8.1 days, respectively (p = 0.038). No missed injuries or mortalities occurred in any of the groups.

Laparoscopy can be utilized for hemodynamically stable patients with PAT. DL can be converted to TL in the hands of a skilled laparoscopist. In this study, we analyze the use of DL over a 10-year period in patients who presented to our level 1 trauma center with PAT. We also provide a comprehensive review of literature to create clear definitions, and to clarify a systematic stepwise approach of how to effectively perform DL and TL. This study adds to the body of literature supporting the role of laparoscopy in PAT, and advances the discussion regarding management.