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LS can be performed safely and effectively in a teaching institution. Rigorous technique will minimize capsular fractures, reducing the risk of splenosis. Accessory spleens can be successfully localized, thus improving response and limiting recurrence of ITP. LS should become the technique of choice for treatment of intractable benign hematologic disease.

Balloon dilatation of the sphincter of Oddi has been performed via a laparoscopic transcystic duct technique. Small common duct stones and stone debris have been successfully lavaged into the duodenum in 17 of 20 cases (85%) by this method. Postoperative hyperamylasemia was noted in four patients. Mild clinical pancreatitis was observed in three patients (15%). Further evaluation of this technique as an adjunct to laparoscopic common bile duct stone extraction is warranted.

With increasing acceptance of routine cholangiography during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (for confirmation of anatomy) there has been increased identification of common duct calculi. A technique of laparoscopic transcystic common duct stone extraction is described and early clinical results are presented. Successful stone extraction was accomplished in 39 out of 41 consecutive attempts by one surgical team. Two cases required choledochotomy. There were four complications including hyperamylasemia (2), minor wound infection (1), and incidental pneumothorax (1). Recommendations regarding safety and indications are presented. Initial evaluation suggests laparoscopic transcystic stone extraction is safe and effective.

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