Laparoscopic Staging Procedures

Douglas A. Levine, MD; Bhavana Pothuri, MD; Richard Barakat, MD; Nadeem Abu-Rustum, MD

Product Details
Product ID: ACS-2512
Year Produced: 2006
Length: 13 min.


Many staging procedure required in gynecologic oncology can now be performed laparoscopically. This video presents an overview of laparoscopic para-aortic and pelvic lymphadenectomy as well as a brief introduction to laparoscopic omentectomy. The equipment used in the procedures are four laparoscopic ports, the argon beam coagulator, laparoscopic graspers, and an endocatch bag. We have performed these procedures mostly in the setting of presumed early stage endometrial, ovarian and cervical carcinoma. Data from our institution has been previously published documenting the low rate of complications during these advanced laparoscopic procedures. Cost-effective analyses have demonstrated that overall hospital charges are lower with laparoscopic staging when compared to open procedures. Published studies from our institution and elsewhere have confirmed that these procedures can be performed safely and adequately.