Laparoscopy in the second trimester of pregnancy

Abstract

Advances in laparoscopic surgery have led to the development of methods to perform traditionally major abdominal surgery and reduce morbidity using minimally invasive surgery techniques. Because a growing number of reports in the literature have suggested its safe use, laparoscopy is being performed in pregnancy with increasing frequency in many centers. Any surgeon treating pregnant patients must have a thorough understanding of the physiology of the pregnant patient and risks and benefits of the surgical procedure. This article discusses the use of laparoscopy in pregnancy focusing on the physiologic changes induced by pregnancy relevant to laparoscopy. Strategies to reduce the risk of complications while performing laparoscopy on a pregnant patient are discussed.