Laparoscopy and the anterior abdominal wall: a guide to vascular mapping for safe entry

Laparoscopy is an invaluable diagnostic and therapeutic tool. Unfortunately, the introduction of trocars into the abdominal cavity is not without certain specific inherent dangers, such as injury to the vasculature of the anterior abdominal wall. This article assesses the normal vasculature of the anterior abdominal wall during laparoscopy as well as various methods, such as pneumoperitoneum pressure and patient positioning, for improving the safety margins for the insertion of umbilical as well lateral trocars.[PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]