A novel technique to apply a Seprafilm (hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose) barrier following laparoscopic surgeries

Objective: To describe a novel technique for application of a Seprafilm (modified hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose) barrier laparoscopically, and to assess the adequacy of coverage of desired sites. Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: University tertiary hospital. Patient(s): One hundred twenty-seven patients who underwent fertility-sparing laparoscopic surgery. Intervention(s): The Seprafilm was rolled up in a plastic package, then delivered through the main trocar. It was unrolled and positioned to cover the traumatized surface of the uterus, ovaries, and tubes. During application, the pelvis was photographed, videotaped, and the pictures were reviewed by two surgeons. Main Outcome Measure(s): The adequacy of the application was divided into three levels as to whether the Seprafilm could cover all the traumatized surfaces. Results: Of the first 15 patients, 4 of 15 (26%) had successful coverage of the traumatized surface with the first sheet of Seprafilm. Of the following 112 patients, 97 of 112 (86.5%) had successful coverage with the first sheet. The success rate climbed to 96% after the second or third sheet. The average time for the application of six pieces (one sheet cut into six pieces) was 21 ± 4 minutes. The posterior cul-de-sac is difficult to apply well. Conclusion(s): It is feasible to apply the antiadhesion barrier Seprafilm laparoscopically. Further studies will be needed to assess the efficacy of reducing adhesion following such use.