Changing role of laparoscopy in the management of patients with cirrhosis

Cirrhosis was previously a contraindication to laparoscopic surgery. The associated coagulation defects, portal hypertension and nutritional disorders were seen as risk factors for high morbidity and mortality. Open surgery in cirrhotic patients over the years have witnessed poor outcome. However, as experience with laparoscopic surgery continues to grow, several studies have described the use of laparoscopy for the diagnosis of cirrhosis as well as the treatment of various surgical conditions among cirrhotic patients. This article reviews the effect of laparoscopy on the cirrhotic patient and describes the increasing role of laparoscopy in management of cirrhosis as well as its proven benefits.