Abstract Purpose We studied the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic management of children with gastric trichobezoar.Materials and methods Seven consecutive cases with gastric trichobezoar were laparoscopically managed during the period from May 2012 to August 2021. Five ports were used for the laparoscopic approach. Gastrotomy was performed using harmonic scalpel. Manipulation of trichobezoar was performed while being still in the stomach to position it in the retrieval bag. The gastrostomy was closed by linear stapler. Extraction of the retrieval bag was done through the umbilical port after its extension. The peritoneal cavity was irrigated, and a peritoneal drain was inserted.Results The median age of the patients was 14 years (range 11–18 years). All cases were completed laparoscopically. The mean operative time was 123 ± 21.5 min. The mean duration of hospital stay was 3 days ± 1 day. An intraperitoneal collection developed in two cases, port site infection occurred in three cases and incisional hernia occurred in a case.Conclusion Laparoscopic management of gastric trichobezoar is a feasible surgical option with a shorter hospital stay and reasonable complication rate. The main issue is to manipulate the gastric trichobezoar while being in the stomach into the retrieval bag. This maneuver helps decrease the violation of the peritoneal cavity by debris of gastric trichobezoar.
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