Disposable and reusable trocars.

Abstract

A wide variety of disposable and reusable trocars have been designed and marketed for use in laparoscopic surgery. The performance of these instruments varies considerably. Disposable trocars usually contain valve designs which allow the easy passage of instrumentation and safety mechanisms which reduce the likelihood of visceral injury from the trocar point. Whilst most reusable trocars have not provided safety mechanisms, and have been less user-friendly, newer designs are beginning to bridge the gap. The choice of a trocar for laparoscopic surgery will depend on each surgeon's perception of the advantages and disadvantages of competing instrumentation, which may need to be balanced against the budgetary requirements of their practice location.