Diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopy for stab wounds of the anterior abdomen.

Background: At present, laparoscopy is used mainly as a diagnostic tool in patients with abdominal stab wounds.

Patients And Methods: Thirty-two hemodynamically stable patients with isolated stab wounds of the anterior abdomen, thought to be penetrating, were prospectively selected to undergo treatment via a laparoscopic approach. When possible, parenchymal wounds were coagulated or sealed, and wounds to the intestines were sutured or stapled.