ABSTRACT
Complications are possible with any surgical procedure, whether the procedure is performed by laparotomy or laparoscopy. Patients and even some physicians believe that laparoscopic surgery carries a lower risk of adverse events than “open” surgery, but this is a false assumption. Minimally invasive surgery does not necessarily equate to minimal risk. Catastrophic complications can occur with laparoscopic surgery and often signs and symptoms become apparent after the patient is discharged from the hospital. Knowledge of anatomy, proper instrumentation, preoperative planning, and surgical expertise are the best tools to prevent complications and achieve optimal surgical outcomes. The literature addressing laparoscopic surgery complications is extensive. Therefore, this chapter presents a brief overview of the most common laparoscopic complications, prevention, and how to recognize complications if they occur.
