Laparoscopic gray-scale and color Doppler US: preliminary animal and clinical studies.

Abstract

To evaluate a semiflexible ultrasound (US) transducer inserted through a laparoscopic port to image abdominal structures. Laparoscopic US with a 9.6-mm-diameter, 5.0-7.5-MHz semiflexible transducer with gray-scale, color, and spectral Doppler capabilities was performed in three miniature swine and in 25 patients with a variety of abdominal abnormalities. This miniature US probe was used to locate normal structures such as blood vessels, allowing the surgeon to decide the best approach for dissection. Color and spectral Doppler US proved especially useful in differentiating vascular from nonvascular structures. The presence or absence of stones in the gallbladder and common bile duct was readily determined. It was possible to detect masses and to provide guidance for their aspiration or biopsy within abdominal organs. In 10 cases (40%), laparoscopic US helped the surgeon make the decision for clinical management and altered the surgical procedures. Laparoscopic US was useful in assisting laparoscopic evaluation of abnormalities in the abdomen.