Single-port Robotic Cholecystectomy (SPRC) Using the da Vinci Xi System With Straight Instruments: A Practical and...

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Robotic Surgery
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) offers cosmetic benefits but presents technical challenges.
• Robotic systems can enhance surgical capabilities, with the da Vinci Xi adaptable for single-port procedures.
• This study details the experience with single-port robotic cholecystectomy (SPRC) using straight instruments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and safety of SPRC using the da Vinci Xi system.
• To optimize technical aspects of SPRC, including port configuration and instrument handling.
• To assess perioperative outcomes of SPRC.

Main Methods:

• SPRC was performed with an optimized umbilical port and docking technique.
• Standardized surgical steps ensured stable traction and precise dissection; a crossover method was used for difficult dissections.
• Eleven patients underwent SPRC, with data on demographics, operation, and perioperative events collected.

Main Results:

• All SPRC procedures were completed successfully without conversion to open or multiport surgery.
• Mean operative time was 116.7 minutes with minimal blood loss (13.8 mL).
• No intraoperative complications occurred; postoperative pain scores and hospital stay were low, with no readmissions or port-site issues.

Conclusions:

• SPRC using the da Vinci Xi system with straight instruments is feasible and safe.
• Optimized port placement and instrument coordination achieve outcomes comparable to dedicated single-port systems.
• This approach offers an accessible alternative for institutions lacking specialized single-port platforms.