A simple device for making a glove balloon for retroperitoneal dissection

Abstract

Expansion of the retroperitoneal space is required prior to a retroperitoneal or an extraperitoneal laparoscopic procedure. This is usually performed by inflating a homemade glove balloon or a commercially available balloon. The latter is expensive and the former can sometimes be cumbersome. The present device is a metal cannula with a specially designed nut that holds the fingerstalls of a glove in position obviating the need for a tie. It was used in nine patients for three upper ureterolithotomies, three nephrectomies and three pyelolithotomies, all performed by the retroperitoneal laparoscopic approach. The fingerstalls did not burst or come off during inflation, the quality of dissection was satisfactory and all procedures were performed successfully. This simple reusable device provides a reliable and economical method for making a homemade balloon.