Why might a laparoscopic procedure be converted to “open” surgery?
The patient’s well being, rather than how a procedure is done, is the most important consideration. A common reason for conversion to “open” surgery is bleeding that can’t be adequately controlled using laparoscopic instruments. Some procedures, such as splenectomy, have a higher risk of bleeding, so these are the ones that generally have the higher conversion rate. Insufficient visibility within the body is another reason for conversion from videosurgery to the “open” procedure.
