Single incision laparoscopic total colectomy and proctocolectomy for benign disease: initial experience

Area of Science:

• Minimally invasive surgery
• Gastrointestinal surgery
• Laparoscopic techniques

Background:

• Laparoscopic colectomy and proctocolectomy are established procedures.
• Minimally invasive approaches aim to reduce patient morbidity and improve recovery.
• Single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) represents a further evolution in minimally invasive techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the initial experience and feasibility of single-incision laparoscopic total colectomy and proctocolectomy.
• To assess the safety and outcomes of this approach for benign gastrointestinal diseases.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of four female patients undergoing SILS total colectomy or proctocolectomy for benign disease.
• Procedures utilized a single umbilical or ileostomy site port for all instruments.
• Specimen extraction was performed through the single port site.

Main Results:

• The mean operative time was 212 minutes with minimal blood loss (30 ml).
• No intraoperative complications occurred, and no additional ports were needed.
• Mean hospital stay was 4.5 days, with one instance of self-resolving postoperative ileus.

Conclusions:

• Single-incision laparoscopic total colectomy and proctocolectomy are feasible in selected patients with benign gastrointestinal conditions.
• This approach demonstrates safety and efficacy, potentially offering advantages in recovery.
• Further research is warranted to establish the long-term benefits and optimal patient selection for SILS colectomy.