Challenges in the Widespread use of Minimal Access Surgery for the Management of Abdominal Trauma: A Primer

Minimal access surgery (MAS) has made great strides in the evaluation and treatment of elective surgical pathology. The use of MAS for intervention in the patient with abdominal trauma has cautiously lagged behind. We undertook an indepth analysis of published surgical literature in this regard. The aim was essentially to succinctly summarize current evidence and identify obstacles to its more widespread use. Lack of skill and experience has been identified as the main factor. Addressing this issue with further training and education will be the panacea for the success of MAS for abdominal trauma henceforth. Nevertheless, laparoscopy remains an integral component of the surgical armamentarium in dealing with abdominal trauma.