Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in a patient with situs inversus totalis: an ergonomic consideration

Abstract

We report a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease in a patient with situs inversus totalis. The 65-year-old man was previously diagnosed with situs inversus totalis and presented with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease inadequately controlled by medications. The laparoscopic procedure was performed with 5 ports placed in a mirror-image configuration and with the patient in the lithotomy position. Few technical difficulties were encountered during the operation. The position of the primary surgeon, working between the lower limbs of the patient, was considered critical to the success of this case. In situs inversus totalis, this position provides the least visual disorientation from the reversed abdominal organs. We recommend this position for all upper abdominal laparoscopic procedures in patients with situs inversus totalis, including laparoscopic cholecystectomy.