The Suprapubic Cruciate Incision for Laparoscopic-Assisted Microceliotomy

OBJECTIVES: To introduce cruciate microceliotomy for performing conventional open surgery maneuvers at laparoscopy without conversion to standard laparotomy. METHODS: Retrospective review of all pelvic operations performed by this method by a single surgical team at one institution from 1993 through 1996. RESULTS: We found the cruciate incision to provide excellent exposure for the performance of extensive uterine suture-reconstruction, morcellation, tubal microsurgery, and bowel surgery with excellent cosmetic and convalescent results in a series of 94 patients. No wound-related complications were noted. Postoperative analgesic requirements averaged 4.1 oxycodone/acetaminophen tablets per day, and hospital stay averaged 36 hours. CONCLUSION: In our experience, cruciate microceliotomy represents a useful, minimally-invasive adjunct for the performance of open surgical maneuvers at laparoscopy.