Ep. 79 Laparoscopy in Pregnancy: Key Considerations for Surgeons with Dr. Craig Sobolewski

What surgical techniques and safety measures are important to consider when operating in a pregnant patient? In this episode of the BackTable OBGYN podcast, Dr. Craig Sobolewski, a minimally invasive GYN surgeon at Duke, speaks with host Dr. Mark Hoffman about the intricacies of laparoscopic surgery in pregnant patients. --- SYNPOSIS The surgeons delve into the critical importance of understanding anatomy and ensuring proper exposure during surgeries, particularly the challenges and techniques for operating during pregnancy. Key discussions include the use of liver retractors, the management of symptomatic ovarian cysts, and the methods for performing and evaluating abdominal cerclages. They also explore the physiological changes in pregnant patients and the adjustments needed for anesthesia, laparoscopic entry, pressures during surgery, and pre/post-operative care. --- TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction 07:20 - Laparoscopy in Pregnant Patients 11:23 - Common Surgeries During Pregnancy 15:56 - Laparoscopic Surgery Techniques 24:04 - Physiologic Changes in Pregnancy 27:33 - Access Methods and Pressure Considerations 28:53 - Managing Torsion and Cysts in Pregnancy 30:21 - Energy Use and Safety in Pregnant Patients 31:38 - Preoperative and Postoperative Care 34:15 - Cerclage Procedures and Counseling 47:46 - Professional Reflections and Conclusions