A review of laparoscopy for non-obstetric–related surgery during pregnancy

Similar to the general population, parturients (and their fetuses) could benefit from the reduced manipulation associated with laparoscopy. The purpose of this article is to review the current state of knowledge (both clinical and experimental) with respect to the fetal effects of maternal laparoscopy for non-obstetric–related surgery during pregnancy. Human and experimental animal results are examined, and we present preliminary data from our own laboratory. Future experiments are proposed to further develop and refine standards of care for general surgeons and obstetricians who are presented with gravid females in abdominal distress.