Hollow Viscus Injury During Surgery

Reproductive tract surgery carries a risk of injury to the bladder, ureter, and gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This is due to several factors including close surgical proximity of these organs, disease processes that can distort anatomy, delayed mechanical and energy effects, and the inability to directly visualize organ surfaces. The purpose of this article is to review strategies to prevent, recognize, and repair injury to the GI and urinary tract during gynecologic surgery.