Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy--initial experience with different multichannel ports

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Gastrointestinal Surgery

Background:

• Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) represents an advancement in minimally invasive surgery for benign gallbladder diseases.
• It serves as an intermediate technique between conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) and transumbilical endoscopic surgery (NOTES).

Purpose of the Study:

• To present initial experiences and evaluate the safety and feasibility of SILC.
• To assess patient outcomes, including operative time, pain, and cosmetic satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• Seventeen patients underwent SILC for benign gallbladder diseases.
• Data collected included operative time, conversion rates to conventional LC, and postoperative pain scores (Visual Analogue Scale - VAS).
• Patient satisfaction with cosmetic outcomes was also assessed.

Main Results:

• The mean operative time was 93.5 minutes.
• Conversions to conventional LC occurred in 11.6% of cases (2 patients).
• The average VAS pain score 8 hours post-operation was 2.00, with all patients reporting high satisfaction with the cosmetic effect.

Conclusions:

• SILC is a safe and feasible procedure for treating benign gallbladder diseases.
• The technique offers excellent cosmetic results, enhancing patient satisfaction.
• Further prospective studies are recommended to support the general acceptance of SILC.