Right lateral position for laparoscopic splenic flexure mobilization

Abstract

Aim: Standard laparoscopic splenic flexure mobilization is often hampered by redundant small bowel and usually necessitates additional ports. The retraction required runs the risk of inadvertent injury to the surrounding structures including the spleen.

Method: We present a new technique that permits a safe, rapid and complete mobilization of the splenic flexure even for the more difficult patients.

Results: We have used it in 15 consecutive patients without mortality, re-operation or conversion to open surgery.

Conclusion: The right lateral position for splenic flexure mobilization gives better exposure of the left upper quadrant allowing complete dissection of the splenic flexure from the tail of the pancreas facilitating mobilization even in more difficult cases.