Abstract
Since 1992 we have performed the laparoscopic cholecystectomy with an abdominal lifting method using an original lifting bar which was newly devised at our department for 100 patients with good results. Our original lifting bar is made of a stainless steel, 5 mm in diameter. It is inserted into the abdominal cavity beyond the right costal arch, is retracted enourh, and then offers a good operative view. This modified lifting bar is especially effective for the obese patients. Our lifting method enables us to use usual operating instruments such as gauze, electric cautery with a long hilt used for laparotomy, and is convenient for aspiration and washing. The method has the advantage that laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be safely performed for the patients with cardiopulmonary complications or those with poor goneral condition without risk of causing pneumoperitoneum.
