Microlaparoscopy For Recurrent Abdominal Pain in Children

Abstract

Purpose: This prospective study evaluated the diagnostic and therapeutic feasibility and safety of microlaparoscopy for the management of chronic abdominal pain in children.

Methods: The study included 45 children (13 boys and 32 girls; age range from 6 to 16 years, average 9.5 years) undergoing diagnostic microlaparoscopy for chronic abdominal pain. Microlaparoscopy (the exclusive use of 2 mm instrument sets and small diameter scopes, i. e. 1.7 mm, 1.9 mm and 2.4 mm) was performed after common organic diseases were ruled out by careful baseline investigations.

Results: No complications occurred which were related to the exclusive use of 2 mm instruments and small scopes. CT scans were avoided in all patients. No intraoperative pathological findings were found in 18 children. In another 18 children, the intraoperative findings indicated the need for further surgical intervention. At follow-up, 26 patients reported that they were totally pain-free; 10 children had partial resolution after surgery, and 8 children reported only minimal resolution. In 20 cases, the procedures were accomplished as an outpatient surgery.

Conclusion: Microlaparosopy seems to be a safe and effective diagnostic tool with a favorable diagnostic accuracy, minimal access trauma and superior cosmesis in children.

Key words

microlaparoscopy - child - abdominal pain - chronic pain - diagnostic laparoscopy

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Correspondence