Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a systematic review. Surg Endosc. 2011;25:367-377. [PMID: 20607556 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-010-1217-5]

A multicenter study of initial experience with single-incision robotic cholecystectomies (SIRC) demonstrating a high success rate in 465 cases

BACKGROUND

Recently, the robotic single-site platform has been used to ameliorate the difficulties seen in single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILC) while preserving the benefits of standard laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The purpose of this study is to describe the clinical outcomes of a large series of single-incision robotic cholecystectomy (SIRC).

METHODS

Medical records of consecutive patients who underwent SIRC were retrospectively reviewed. All procedures were performed by six surgeons at five different North American centers involved in the study. All patients included in the study underwent a cholecystectomy attempted through single site at the umbilicus, using the da Vinci(®) Surgical System (Intuitive Surgical Inc. Sunnyvale, CA).

RESULTS

A total of 465 patients met study criteria. Median age was 48 years (range 18-89); 351 (75.5 %) were female and 304 (66.4 %) were overweight or obese. Except for gender, case characteristics differed significantly by surgeon/site. Previous abdominal surgery was reported for 226 (48.6 %) cases. SIRC was successfully completed in 455 (97.8 %) cases, and there were no conversions to open surgery. Median surgical time was 52 min with a decreasing trend after 55-85 cases. Male gender, obesity and diagnoses other than biliary dyskinesia were independent predictors of longer surgical times. The complication rate was 2.6 %.

CONCLUSIONS

Our large, multicenter study demonstrates that robotic single-site cholecystectomy is safe and feasible in a wide range of patients.

Single Incision Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Performed via the “Marionette” Technique Shows Equivalence in Outcome and Cost to Standard Four Port Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in a Selected Patient Population

The aim of our study is to compare single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) performed using the “marionette” technique (m-SILC), to the standard four-port technique [four-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (4PLC)]. Patient information was extracted from a prospectively maintained database (n = 188). Our primary endpoint was operative costs (determined by operating time and instruments used). Secondary endpoints were length of stay, operative time, blood loss, and postoperative complication rates. Univariate and adjusted multivariate analysis was used to compare the outcomes. There were a total of 188 patients for this study. Gender, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, and resident participation were similar. Patients undergoing m-SILC were younger (43.8 vs 49.8 years old), less likely to have cholangiogram (32% vs 54%), and were more likely to undergo cholecystectomy for chronic cholecystitis (73.3% vs 52%). In univariate analysis, cholecystectomy performed by the “marionette method” as compared with the 4PLC was associated with shorter operative time (67 vs 59 minutes respectively) and shorter hospital stay (1.2 vs 2.08 days respectively). In multivariate analysis, SILC was associated with shorter hospital stay and comparable operative time, blood loss, and postoperative complications. Instrumentation cost was less in SILC (by $94). SILC done by an experienced surgeon with the “marionette” technique on a carefully selected population shows a statistically significant cost benefit while maintaining clinically comparable outcomes to the standard 4PLC.

Single-Site Robotic Cholecystectomy: Reverse-Port Technique

This study aims to introduce an alternative technique for effective single-site robotic cholecystectomy (SSRC) using a reverse port.Proper exposure of Calot's triangle is critical for safe laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Current robotic surgical systems are useful for single-site cholecystectomy. However, in exposing Calot's triangle, the gallbladder is usually retracted in a medial and upward direction, resulting in a narrow triangle. This intraoperative view is a major obstacle to safe laparoscopic cholecystectomy.From October 2013 to October 2014, 55 consecutive patients underwent SSRC by a single surgeon at Yonsei University Severance Hospital. Initially, 5 patients underwent the original robotic single site cholecystectomy technique, and the remaining 50 patients underwent robotic single site cholecystectomy using our reverse port technique.There were no differences between the SSRC-O (original port) group and the SSRC-R (reverse port) group in terms of patient age (P = 0.244), body mass index (P = 0.503), and pathologic conditions of the gallbladder (P = 0.841). Total operation time (132.6 vs 99.12 min; P = 0.009), actual dissection time (51.6 vs 30.28 min; P = 0.001), and console time (84.4 vs 50.46 min; P = 0.001) were all significantly shorter in the SSRC-R group. Mean intraoperative blood loss was minimal in both groups (20 vs 12.4 mL, P = 0.467), and bile spillage occurred in 2 patients of the SSRC-R group. There was one case of laparoscopic conversion in the SSRC-R group.The reverse port technique described in this study successfully widened Calot's triangle and improved the safety of the current robotic surgical system for single-site robotic cholecystectomy.

Single-port robotic cholecystectomy. Initial and pioneer experience in Brazil

The technique of a single-port laparoscopy was developed over the last years as an attempt to lower surgical aggression and improve the aesthetic results of the minimally invasive surgery. A new robotic platform used with the da Vinci^® Robotic System Single-Site System^® (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, California, United States) was recently launched on the global market and is still not documented in Brazil. The authors report on the first four robotic single-port cholecystectomies performed with this da Vinci^® Robotic System in Brazil.

Is routine single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy feasible? A retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) has been shown to be safe for uncomplicated gallbladder diseases. Routinely applying SILC is debatable.

METHODS

Two hundred SILCs were performed with single-incision multiple-port longitudinal-array and self-camera techniques.

RESULTS

Eighty-eight (44%) procedures were scheduled for complicated diseases. The routine group had a higher comorbidity rate, a lower preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography rate, a higher intraoperative cholangiography rate, a higher proportion of complicated gallbladder diseases, shorter operative time, more intraoperative blood loss, and lower postoperative pethidine dose than the selective group (the first 73 patients). The conversion and complication rates showed no statistical difference. It took fewer cases but longer time to pass the learning phase of SILC for complicated gallbladder diseases. The multivariate analysis showed that male sex and complicated gallbladder diseases were associated with a higher procedure conversion rate, and increased patient age was related to a higher complication rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Routine SILC for benign gallbladder diseases is feasible in the experienced phase. Practicing SILC for uncomplicated gallbladder diseases helps to achieve competence in this technique for complicated diseases.

Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy with curved versus linear instruments assessed by systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized trials

BACKGROUND

Single-incision laparoscopic surgery poses significant ergonomic limitations. Curved instruments have been developed in order to address the issue of lack of triangulation. Direct comparison between single-incision laparoscopic surgeries with conventional linear and curved instruments has not been performed to date.

METHODS

MEDLINE, CENTRAL and OpenGrey were searched to identify relevant randomized trials. A network meta-analysis was applied to compare operative risks, conversion, duration of surgery and the need for placement of an adjunct trocar in single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy with linear and curved instruments. The random-effects model was applied for two sets of comparisons, with conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy as the reference treatment. Odds ratios, mean differences and 95% confidence intervals were calculated.

RESULTS

Twenty-three randomized trials encompassing 1737 patients were included. The use of curved instruments was associated with increased operative time (mean difference 32.53 min, 95% CI 24.23-40.83) and higher odds for the use of an adjunct trocar (odds ratio 22.81, 95% CI 16.69-28.94) compared to the use of linear instruments. Perioperative risks could not be comparatively assessed due to the low number of events.

CONCLUSION

Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy with curved instruments may be associated with an increased level of operative difficulty, as reflected by the need for auxiliary measures for exposure and increased operative time as compared to the use of linear instruments. Current instrumentation requires further improvement, tailored to the features of single-incision laparoscopic surgery (CRD42015015721).

Clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of cholecystectomy compared with observation/conservative management for preventing recurrent symptoms and complications in adults presenting with uncomplicated symptomatic gallstones or cholecystitis: a systematic review and economic evaluation

BACKGROUND

Approximately 10-15% of the adult population suffer from gallstone disease, cholelithiasis, with more women than men being affected. Cholecystectomy is the treatment of choice for people who present with biliary pain or acute cholecystitis and evidence of gallstones. However, some people do not experience a recurrence after an initial episode of biliary pain or cholecystitis. As most of the current research focuses on the surgical management of the disease, less attention has been dedicated to the consequences of conservative management.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of cholecystectomy compared with observation/conservative management in people presenting with uncomplicated symptomatic gallstones (biliary pain) or cholecystitis.

DATA SOURCES

We searched all major electronic databases (e.g. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Citation Index, Bioscience Information Service, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) from 1980 to September 2012 and we contacted experts in the field.

REVIEW METHODS

Evidence was considered from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomised comparative studies that enrolled people with symptomatic gallstone disease (pain attacks only and/or acute cholecystitis). Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias of included studies. Standard meta-analysis techniques were used to combine results from included studies. A de novo Markov model was developed to assess the cost-effectiveness of the interventions.

RESULTS

Two Norwegian RCTs involving 201 participants were included. Eighty-eight per cent of people randomised to surgery and 45% of people randomised to observation underwent cholecystectomy during the 14-year follow-up period. Participants randomised to observation were significantly more likely to experience gallstone-related complications [risk ratio = 6.69; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.57 to 28.51; p = 0.01], in particular acute cholecystitis (risk ratio = 9.55; 95% CI 1.25 to 73.27; p = 0.03), and less likely to undergo surgery (risk ratio = 0.50; 95% CI 0.34 to 0.73; p = 0.0004), experience surgery-related complications (risk ratio = 0.36; 95% CI 0.16 to 0.81; p = 0.01) or, more specifically, minor surgery-related complications (risk ratio = 0.11; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.56; p = 0.008) than those randomised to surgery. Fifty-five per cent of people randomised to observation did not require an operation during the 14-year follow-up period and 12% of people randomised to cholecystectomy did not undergo the scheduled operation. The results of the economic evaluation suggest that, on average, the surgery strategy costs £1236 more per patient than the conservative management strategy but was, on average, more effective. An increase in the number of people requiring surgery while treated conservatively corresponded to a reduction in the cost-effectiveness of the conservative strategy. There was uncertainty around some of the parameters used in the economic model.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this assessment indicate that cholecystectomy is still the treatment of choice for many symptomatic people. However, approximately half of the people in the observation group did not require surgery or suffer complications in the long term indicating that a conservative therapeutic approach may represent a valid alternative to surgery in this group of people. Owing to the dearth of current evidence in the UK setting a large, well-designed, multicentre trial is needed.

STUDY REGISTRATION

The study was registered as PROSPERO CRD42012002817.

FUNDING

The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme.

Kinematic Design of a Novel Spatial Remote Center-of-Motion Mechanism for Minimally Invasive Surgical Robot

To deliver more value to the healthcare industry, a specialized surgical robot is needed in the minimally invasive surgery (MIS) field. To fill this need, a compact hybrid robotic wrist with four degrees of freedom (DOFs) is developed for assisting physicians to perform MIS. The main body of the wrist is a 2DOF parallel mechanism with a remote center-of-motion (RCM), which is located outside the mechanism. From the mechanical point of view, it is different from existing 2DOF spherical mechanisms, since there is no physical constraint on the RCM. Other DOFs of the wrist are realized by a revolute joint and a prismatic joint, which are serially mounted on the movable platform of the parallel mechanism. The function of these DOFs is to realize the roll motion and the in-out translation of the surgical tool. Special attention is paid to the parallel RCM mechanism. The detailed design is provided and the kinematic equations are obtained in the paper. Further, the Jacobian matrix is derived based on the kinematic equations. Finally, the paper examines the singularity configurations and implements the condition number analysis to identify the kinematic performance of the mechanism.

Advances in reduced port laparoscopic liver resection

Reduced port surgery has been attracting attention in the field of minimally invasive surgery. Although the use of SILS is becoming widespread, technical difficulty has delayed its adoption for laparoscopic liver resection. Recently, advances in laparoscopic liver resection have been made in tandem with advances in surgical skill and devices. The main driver in conventional laparoscopic liver resection's evolution to become less surgically invasive seems to be single-incision laparoscopic liver resection (SILLR). To date, most reports on SILLR have been single case reports or case series. Only a few cohort studies on conventional laparoscopic surgery and SILLR have been conducted. Recent reports have described the use of SILLR for well-localized lesions and solitary tumors located in the anterolateral segments of the liver or left liver lobe, but its application remains limited to partial resection and left lateral sectionectomy. The feasibility and safety of SILLR have been demonstrated, but additional work is needed for standardization of the procedure.

Impact of fellowship during single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Adoption of single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy during fellowship training is safe and feasible; however, longer operative times are expected during the teaching process.

Background and Objectives:

Minimally invasive surgery fellowship programs have been created in response to advancements in technology and patient's demands. Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) is a technique that has been shown to be safe and feasible, but this appears to be the case only for experienced surgeons. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of minimally invasive surgery fellow participation during SILC.

Methods:

We reviewed data from our experience with SILC during 3 years. The cases were divided in two groups: group 1 comprised procedures performed by the main attending without the presence of the fellow, and group 2 comprised procedures performed with the fellow present during the operation. Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, indication for surgery, total surgical time, hospital length of stay, and complications were evaluated.

Results:

The cohort included 229 patients: 142 (62%) were included in group 1 and 87 (38%) in group 2. No differences were found in demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and indication for surgery between groups. The total surgical time was 34.4 ± 11.4 minutes for group 1 and 46.8 ± 16.0 minutes for group 2 (P < .001). The hospital length of stay was 0.89 ± 0.32 days for group 1 and 1.01 ± 0.40 days for group 2 (P = .027). No intraoperative complications were seen in either group. There were 3 postoperative complications (2.1%) in group 1 and none in group 2 (P = .172).

Conclusion:

Adoption of SILC during an established fellowship program is safe and feasible. A longer surgical time is expected during the teaching process.

[Mini-laparoscopic cholecystectomy as an innovative method in minimally invasive abdominal surgery]

INTRODUCTION

In our study, we applied a mini-laparosopic approach during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) (using the minimum size of trocars with the simultaneous intention to reduce their number). The advantages and disadvantages of the mini-LC approach were compared with those of traditional LC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

During mini-LC procedures, we used 3 ports (11 mm, 5 mm, 3.5 mm). Mini-LC was performed in 10 patients, and the results were compared with those of 10 cases of traditional LCs. The two groups were homogenous in terms of gender, age, BMI and ASA classification. Comparison criteria included operative time, the need to use an extra port, conversion rate, oral analgesic requirement, early/late complications and cosmetic results.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in terms of operative time, blood loss, hospital stay and complications. Cumulative size of incisions was 19.5 mm with mini-LC- and 41 mm in the LC group, respectively, and the tissue injury was 124.2 mm(2) and 448.2 mm(2). Cosmetic results of mini-LC were highly improved by these values. Increased oral analgetic requirements were detected in LC group.

CONCLUSION

Mini-LC is a safe procedure with outstanding cosmetic results accompanied by less oral analgetic requirements. In selected patients, it can be recommended as an alternative method of traditional LC.

Transumbilical single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy with conventional instruments: A continuing study

INTRODUCTION

The feasibility of the single incision, multiport transumbilical approach(SILC) for the treatment of symptomatic gallbladder calculus disease has been established.

AIMS

The study examines both short and long term morbidity of the SILC approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All the 1338 patients were operated by the same surgeon through a transversely placed umbilical incision in the upper third of the umbilicus. Three conventional ports,10,5 and 5 mm were introduced through the same skin incision but through separate transfascial punctures. The instruments were those used for standard laparoscopic cholecystectomy(SLC).Patients with acute cholecystitis and calculous pancreatitis were included,while those with choledocholithiasis were excluded. Results were compared with those of SLC.

RESULTS

Forty patients had difficult gall bladders, 214 had acute cholecystitis, and 16 had calculous pancreatitis. The mean operating time was 24.7 mins as compared to 18.4 mins in SLC. Intracorporeal knotting was required in four patients. Conversion to SLC was required in 12 patients. Morrisons pouch drain was left in 3 patients. Injectable analgesics were required in 85% vs 90% (SILC vs SLC) on day 1 and 25% vs 45% on day 2 and infection was seen in 6(0. 45%) patients. Port site hernia was seen in 2 patients. The data was compared with that of SLC and significance calculated by the student 't' test. A p value less than 0.05 was considered as significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Trans umbilical SILC gives comparable results to SLC, and is a superior alternative when cosmesis and postoperative pain are considered, but the operative time is significantly more.

Patient perception of single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Safety and relief of symptoms appeared to be most important to patients with gallbladder disease, whereas postprocedural aesthetics was less important.

Background and Objectives:

Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) is gradually being adopted into general surgical practice. The potential risks and benefits are still being studied, and little is known about how patients perceive this new surgical technique.

Methods:

After providing patients with basic educational materials on laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) and SILC, we administered a questionnaire exploring patients' perspectives of the importance of postoperative pain, scar appearance, risk of complications, and cost regarding their preference for SILC versus LC.

Results:

Among 100 patients (mean age, 43.3 years), the majority were women (85%), white (85%), college educated (77%), and privately insured (85%). Indications included biliary dyskinesia (43%), biliary colic (48%), and acute cholecystitis (9%). Patients stated that they would be somewhat or very interested in SILC if recommended by their surgeon (89%), although 35% were somewhat or very concerned about the lack of long-term results. The majority would accept no additional risk to undergo SILC. Scar appearance was somewhat or very important to <40% of patients, whereas pain was somewhat or very important to 79%. Only 27% of patients would spend >$100 to undergo SILC. When asked to rank pain, appearance, symptom resolution, personal cost, and risk of complications, 52% ranked symptom resolution, 20% ranked pain, and 19% ranked risk of complications as most important.

Conclusions:

Safety and relief of symptoms are most important to patients with gallbladder disease, whereas postprocedural esthetics was relatively unimportant and few would be willing to pay more for SILC versus LC. However, if the surgeon recommends SILC, most patients would trust this recommendation.

Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy for cholecystitis requiring percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage

PURPOSE

Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) has been performed for patients with gallbladder stones but without acute cholecystitis. We report our experience of performing SILC for patients with cholecystitis requiring percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD).

METHODS

We performed SILC via an SILS-Port with additional 5-mm forceps through an umbilical incision in ten patients with cholecystitis requiring PTGBD.

RESULTS

All procedures were completed successfully. The mean operative time was 124 min (range 78-169 min) and there were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 2.7 days. All patients were satisfied with the cosmetic results.

CONCLUSIONS

Our procedure may represent an alternative to conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CLC) for patients who fervently demand the cosmetic advantages, despite cholecystitis requiring PTGBD. SILC should be performed carefully to avoid bile duct injury because the only advantage of SILC over CLC is cosmetic.

Single-site robotic cholecystectomy in a broadly inclusive patient population: a prospective study

OBJECTIVES

To describe our initial experience with single-site robotic cholecystectomy (SSRC) and its applicability to a broad segment of patients.

BACKGROUND

At the initiation of our study, there were only 3 published reports on SSRC. These initial studies had limited inclusion criteria. We present our experience with the technical aspects and patient outcomes of SSRC in a broadly inclusive patient population.

METHODS

Prospective cohort study from January 2012 to January 2013, in which 95 patients underwent SSRC. Procedural times, postoperative complications, delayed hospital discharges, and re-admissions were evaluated.

RESULTS

Patients were predominantly female (71.6%) had mean age of 45.2 ± 6.1 years and mean body mass index (BMI) of 30.1 ± 7.1 kg/m. Overall, mean total operative time (TOT) for all patients (n = 95) was 88.63 ± 32.0 (range: 49-220) minutes. SSRC was not completed in 8 (8.42%) patients: 6 conversions to laparoscopy, 1 conversion to open, and 1 aborted case. The group of patients who were able to complete SSRC (n = 87) had a mean TOT of 83.5 ± 24.5 minutes and mean operative robotic time (RT) of 39.6 ± 15.2 minutes. RT was longer in patients with intra-abdominal adhesions (P = 0.0139) and higher BMI (P = 0.03). A minority of patients required hospital admission (11.6%), readmission (6.3%), or reoperation (1.1%). No bile duct injury or death occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

SSRC is safe and has a manageable learning curve. Patient factors, such as obesity, did not significantly affect conversion rates or TOTs. SSRC is a promising new technique, which can be offered to a wide array of patients.

Can single incision laproscopic cholecystectomy replace the traditional four port laproscopic approach: a review

The major aim of surgeons has always been a minimalist approach towards surgery, thereby reducing the complications associated with the surgery. The gold standard treatment for cholelithiasis with cholecystitis is currently the four port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (4 PLC). Recently, a newer technique has been introduced which uses a single port, rather than the four ports, for the removal of the gall bladder laparoscopically; it is known as Single Incision Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (SILC). This is a comparatively minimal approach towards surgery. Therefore the purpose of this review is to compare the advantages and the disadvantages of SILC versus 4PLC, and hence, to give an idea of whether SILC is ready to replace the traditional approach as the new treatment of choice.

Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy and overweight patients

BACKGROUND

Modifications of minimally invasive laparoscopic cholecystectomy have been achieved, including single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC). In the current literature, the effects of high body mass index (BMI) on the results of the surgical therapy have not been sufficiently investigated after SILC. We evaluated perioperative outcomes and postoperative complications of overweight patients who underwent SILC.

METHODS

Two hundred two patients who underwent SILC were retrospectively evaluated. The data included demographics and outcomes such as postoperative complications and postoperative hospitalization were obtained. For the outcome analyses, patients were divided into two group according to their BMI (<30 vs ≥ 30 kg/m(2)).

RESULTS

Of the 202 patients, 157 patients were in normal weight group and 45 patients were in overweight group. Mean operative time was 31.67 ± 6.4 min in overweight group and 26.6 ± 5.3 min in normal weight group. The wound infection rate for overweight and normal weight patients was 13.3 and 7.6 %, respectively. Eleven of the 202 patients (5.4 %) experienced port-site hernia (PSH).

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective study comparing overweight and normal weight patient in SILC demonstrates that SILC is associated with the prolonged operative time, high additional port requirement, and increased wound complication rate. PSH occurrence rate was high after SILC irrespective of the body weight.

Safety and feasibility of needlescopic grasper-assisted single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with acute cholecystitis: comparison with three-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy

INTRODUCTION

Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) has been increasing in use steadily, and many researchers have reported the safety and feasibility of SILC. However, most studies were confined to selected patients and excluded patients with acute inflammation. In this study, we evaluated the safety and feasibility of SILC with our technique in patients with acute cholecystitis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Ninety-six patients with acute cholecystitis undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy at Uijeonbu St. Mary's Hospital (Uijeongbu, Korea) between October 2011 and December 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. SILC was performed in 49 patients, and conventional three-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed in 47 patients. Patient demographics and operative outcomes were compared between groups to evaluate the safety and feasibility of SILC using our technique.

RESULTS

There were no differences between groups in demographics except for the sex ratio. SILC was more often performed in female patients (69% versus 34%, P=.001). There were no statistically significant differences between groups in terms of operation time, critical view of safety identification time, iatrogenic gallbladder perforation, port-site seroma, and postoperative hospital stay, respectively. One patient in each group required conversion to open cholecystectomy because of massive bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that needlescopic grasper-assisted SILC with our technique is acceptable not only in selected patients but also in patients with acute cholecystitis. Lateral and cephalad retraction using a needlescopic grasper and a snake retractor can make SILC safe and easy in acute cholecystitis through better visualization of the triangle of Calot.

The efficacy and safety of different kinds of laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a network meta analysis of 43 randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

We conducted a network meta analysis (NMA) to compare different kinds of laparoscopic cholecystectomy [LC] (single port [SPLC], two ports [2PLC], three ports [3PLC], and four ports laparoscopic cholecystectomy [4PLC], and four ports mini-laparoscopic cholecystectomy [mini-4PLC]).

METHODS

PubMed, the Cochrane library, EMBASE, and ISI Web of Knowledge were searched to find randomized controlled trials [RCTs]. Direct pair-wise meta analysis (DMA), indirect treatment comparison meta analysis (ITC) and NMA were conducted to compare different kinds of LC.

RESULTS

We included 43 RCTs. The risk of bias of included studies was high. DMA showed that SPLC was associated with more postoperative complications, longer operative time, and higher cosmetic score than 4PLC, longer operative time and higher cosmetic score than 3PLC, more postoperative complications than mini-4PLC. Mini-4PLC was associated with longer operative time than 4PLC. ITC showed that 3PLC was associated with shorter operative time than mini-4PLC, and lower postoperative pain level than 2PLC. 2PLC was associated with fewer postoperative complications and longer hospital stay than SPLC. NMA showed that SPLC was associated with more postoperative complications than mini-4PLC, and longer operative time than 4PLC.

CONCLUSION

The rank probability plot suggested 4PLC might be the worst due to the highest level of postoperative pain, longest hospital stay, and lowest level of cosmetic score. The best one might be mini-4PLC because of highest level of cosmetic score, and fewest postoperative complications, or SPLC because of lowest level of postoperative pain and shortest hospital stay. But more studies are needed to determine which will be better between mini-4PLC and SPLC.

Single-access laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus classic laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Single-incision laparoscopic surgery has been proposed as a minimally invasive technique with the advantages of fewer scars and reduced pain. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective randomized clinical trials of single-access laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SALC) versus classic laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CLC).

METHODS

All randomized controlled trials were identified through electronic searches (MEDLINE, PubMed, SAGES, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) up to October 2011. Methodologically appropriate clinical trials identified in the search process were included in a meta-analysis to provide a pooled estimate of effect.

RESULTS

Nine true randomized controlled trials were included in the analysis and reported a total of 695 patients, divided into the SALC group of 362 patients and the CLC group of 333 patients. Median operating time was longer with 57 minutes in SALC versus 45 minutes in CLC (P=0.00001). There was no significant difference in length of stay (SALC 1.36 d vs. CLC 1.15 d, P=0.18). Conversion to laparotomy in either group was similar; however, in 18 of 66 SALC patients an additional instrument was used, compared with 1 of 67 CLC patients (P=0.0003). Complications were not significant different [16% in SALC vs. 12% in the CLC group (P=0.74)]. Median postoperative pain with the visual analog scale score was 3.8 points in SALC versus 3.15 points in the CLC group (P=0.48). Cosmetic satisfaction was significantly more satisfying with 9 points favoring SALC versus 0 points favoring CLC (P=0.0005) in contrast to the quality-of-life questionnaire where there was no significant difference in patient overall satisfaction between SALC and CLC groups (P=0.0515).

CONCLUSIONS

SALC required longer operative times than CLC without significant benefits in patient overall satisfaction, postoperative pain, and hospital stay. Only satisfaction with the cosmetic result showed a significantly higher preference towards SALC.

Cholecystitis

Acute cholecystitis is defined as inflammation of the gallbladder and is usually caused by obstruction of the cystic duct. Cholescintigraphy is the most sensitive imaging modality for cholecystitis. The gold standard treatment of acute cholecystitis is laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Operating early in the disease course decreases overall hospital stay and avoids increased complications, conversion to open procedures, and mortality. Cholecystitis during pregnancy is a challenging problem for surgeons. Operative intervention is generally safe for both mother and fetus, given the improved morbidity of the laparoscopic approach compared with open, although increased caution should be exercised in women with gallstone pancreatitis.

Single-incision vs three-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy for complicated and uncomplicated acute cholecystitis

AIM

To compare the clinical outcome of single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) and three-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (3ILC) for acute cholecystitis.

METHODS

From July 2009 to September 2012, 136 patients underwent SILC or 3ILC for acute cholecystitis at a tertiary referral hospital. One experienced surgeon performed every procedure using 5 or 10 mm 30-degree laparoscopes, straight instruments, and conventional ports. Five patients with perforated gallbladder and diffuse peritonitis and 23 patients with mild acute cholecystitis were excluded. The remaining 108 patients were divided into complicated and uncomplicated groups according to pathologic findings. Patient demography, clinical data, operative results and complications were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifty patients with gangrenous cholecystitis, gallbladder empyema, or hydrops were classified as the complicated group, and 58 patients with acute cholecystitis were classified as the uncomplicated group. Twenty-three (46.0%) of the patients in the complicated group (n = 50) and 39 (67.2%) of the patients in the uncomplicated group (n = 58) underwent SILC; all others underwent 3ILC. The postoperative length of hospital stay (PLOS) was significantly shorter in the SILC subgroups than the 3ILC subgroups (3.5 ± 1.1 d vs 4.6 ± 1.3 d, P < 0.01 in the complicated group; 2.9 ± 1.1 d vs 3.7 ± 1.4 d, P < 0.05 in the uncomplicated group). The maximum body temperature recorded at day 1 and at day 2 following the procedure was lower in the SILC subgroups, but the difference reached statistical significance only in the uncomplicated group (37.41 ± 0.56 °C vs 37.80 ± 0.72 °C, P < 0.05 on postoperative day 1; 37.10 ± 0.43 °C vs 37.57 ± 0.54 °C, P < 0.01 on postoperative day 2). The operative time, estimated blood loss, postoperative narcotic use, total length of hospital stay, conversion rates, and complication rates were similar in both SILC and 3ILC subgroups. The complicated group had longer operative time (122.2 ± 35.0 min vs 106.6 ± 43.6 min, P < 0.05), longer PLOS (4.1 ± 1.3 d vs 3.2 ± 1.2 d, P < 0.001), and higher conversion rates (36.0% vs 19.0%, P < 0.05) compared with the uncomplicated group.

CONCLUSION

SILC is safe and efficacious for patients with acute cholecystitis. The main benefit is a faster recovery than that achieved with 3ILC.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy with suprapubic approach

BACKGROUND

The laparoscopic cholecystectomies performed through single site surgery, despite undoubted aesthetic results, are costly and technically difficult to be performed. The suprapubic approach presents as a simpler and cheaper alternative with good aesthetic results.

AIM

To report the experience of Garavelo Hospital on laparoscopic cholecystectomy with suprapubic approach.

METHODS

Descriptive, crossectional study with retrospective data retrieval. The variables to be analyzed were success rate; occurrence of complications; surgical time and the length of stay.

RESULTS

The sample consisted of 42 patients, of which females were predominant (76.2%). The age ranged from 18 to 65 years with an average age of 36 years. The success rate was 95.3%. The average time for the procedure was 33.4 minutes. There were no intraoperative complications and all patients were discharged within 24 hours after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy with suprapubic approach is safe and easy to domain. It can be performed in a time similar to traditional laparoscopy, without special instruments. It offers a good cosmetic result, and deserves more attention.

Single-fulcrum laparoscopic cholecystectomy in uncomplicated gallbladder diseases: a retrospective comparative analysis with conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy

PURPOSE

Single-fulcrum laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SFLC) is a variant type of single incision and multi-port technique that does not use specialized one-port devices or articulating instruments. We retrospectively compared perioperative outcomes of SFLC with those of conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CLC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between March 2009 and December 2010, SFLC was performed in 130 patients. Among them, 105 patients with uncomplicated gallbladder disease (no inflammation or no clinical symptoms) and another 105 patients who underwent CLC were selected for this study.

RESULTS

There was no open conversion. In comparison with CLC, SFLC was performed more often in young (46.4±12.2 years vs. 52.5±13.6 years, p=0.001) female patients (80/25 vs. 62/43, p=0.008). The total operation time was longer in SFLC (56.7±14.1 min vs. 47.5±17.1 min, p<0.001), but pain scores immediately after operation and at discharge time were lower for SFLC than for CLC (3.1±1.3 vs. 4.0±1.9, p<0.001, 2.0±0.9 vs. 2.4±0.8, p=0.002). Total cost was lower for SFLC than for CLC (US $ 1801±289.9 vs. US $ 2003±617.4, p=0.004). There were no differences in hospital stay or complication rates.

CONCLUSION

SFLC showed greater technical feasibility and cost benefits in treating uncomplicated benign gallbladder disease than CLC.

Single incision laparoscopic surgery - is it time for laboratory skills training?

Introduction

With the introduction of new surgical equipment, there is always the need for new, more advanced training. The authors try to answer whether the use of the newest generation tools has an impact on achieving better results in single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) technique during the exercises in the surgical skills laboratory.

Material and methods

There were 51 participants in the study: 44 ‘novices’ and 7 ‘experts’. All subjects performed the ‘advanced grasping’ exercise according to the FLS programme manual using four types of laparoscopic approach including two SILS ports and SILS-dedicated instruments. The outcome measures involved task completion time and the number of errors.

Results

Tasks using straight laparoscopic instruments set together with classic three-port access as well as SILS access ports were finished significantly faster when compared with SILS-dedicated instruments (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in performance times between the two setups with straight instruments (p < 0.05) and both setups with SILS-dedicated instruments, irrespective of the use of curved or dynamic articulated tools. Students with no previous laparoscopic experience had significantly worse task completion times in all tasks in comparison to students with laparoscopic laboratory training and the ‘experts’ group.

Conclusions

The use of the straight instruments in the SILS technique remain similar to its performance in full triangulation. SILS-dedicated instruments paradoxically increase the task completion time irrespective of possessed skills. The study showed the necessity of a SILS-dedicated tools training programme.

Single-port cholecystectomy versus multi-port cholecystectomy: a prospective cohort study with 222 patients

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare single-port access cholecystectomy (SPA) with the standard laparoscopic technique (LC) regarding the duration of the operation, complications, learning curve, late postoperative quality of life (QoL) and the incidence of incisional hernias.

METHODS

Between June 2009 and December 2011, a total of 122 SPA cholecystectomies were performed in our hospital. Simultaneously, 310 patients were operated on with the LC technique. In the LC group, 100 patients met the same criteria defined for SPA surgery. The two groups (SPA and LC) were compared by multivariable regression analysis. Endpoints of this study were quality of life (QoL) after 6 months by the EQ-5D questionnaire 5L and the incidence of incisional hernia 1 year after surgery. Operating time, hospital stay, and perioperative complications were also measured and compared. The median follow-up was 9.2 months (3-25 months).

RESULTS

The patients in the SPA group were younger and more often female. The mean operating time for group SPA was 73 min (35-136 min)-significantly longer than that for group LC with 60 min (33-190 min) (p < 0.001). Additional trocars were used in 8 of 122 (6.5 %) SPA patients. A conversion to open cholecystectomy was not necessary in SPA patients. The conversion rate in the LC group to open cholecystectomy was 2 % (2/100). The perioperative and postoperative complications and incisional hernia (5.5 %) were the same in both groups. QoL was significantly better in the SPA group in terms of mobility (p = 0,002), usual activity (p = 0.036), and overall anxiety (p = 0.026).

CONCLUSIONS

SPA cholecystectomy is safe, although the operation is significantly longer. No differences in terms of major complications or the incidence of incisional hernia were seen after 1 year. QoL was significantly better in patients operated on with the SPA technique.

Inflammation in laparoendoscopic single-site surgery versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy

INTRODUCTION

Laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) uses a multiple-entry portal in a single 3.0- to 4.0-cm incision in a natural scar, the umbilicus. The present study aimed to compare the inflammatory impact of classic video laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) versus LESS cholecystectomy.

METHODS

A prospective randomized controlled study was conducted from January to June 2011 at 2 university hospitals in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Fifty-seven patients (53 women, 4 men; mean age = 48.7 years) were randomly assigned to receive LC (n = 29) or LESS (n = 28) cholecystectomy. C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were measured from blood samples collected during induction of anesthesia and at 3 and 24 hours postoperatively.

RESULTS

Median IL-6 levels in the LESS and LC groups, respectively, were 2.96 and 4.5 pg/mL preoperatively, 11.6 and 28.05 pg/mL at 3 hours postoperatively (P = .029), and 13.18 and 15.1 pg/mL at 24 hours postoperatively (P = .52). Median CRP levels in the LESS and LC groups, respectively, were 0.33 and 0.44 mg/mL preoperatively, 0.40 and 0.45 mg/mL (P = .73) at 3 hours postoperatively, and 1.7 and 1.82 mg/mL (P = .84) at 24 hours postoperatively. We did not find a significant association between IL-6 (and CRP) and body mass index in the LESS group.

CONCLUSIONS

LESS cholecystectomy requires a larger size incision than LC. We found a tendency of less postoperative pain following LESS cholecystectomy than LC. There was also a tendency toward lower early inflammatory impact following LESS cholecystectomy versus LC.

Single-incision cholecystectomy: a comparative study of standard laparoscopic, robotic, and SPIDER platforms

BACKGROUND

Many series have shown the feasibility and safety of single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC), but this technique still has limitations such as instrument collisions and lack of triangulation. Recently, two single-incision platforms, robotic and SPIDER, have attempted to ameliorate such problems. This study aimed to compare three different techniques of single-incision cholecystectomy: standard laparoscopic, robotic, and SPIDER approaches.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively collected data from their first 166 single-incision robotic cholecystectomies (SIRCs) and compared the findings with the data from their first 166 SILCs and the first 166 s-generation SPIDER procedures. All the SILCs were performed with three trocars placed in one umbilical incision and with gallbladder retraction using a Prolene stitch on the right upper quadrant. All the robotic cases were managed using the da Vinci Single-Site Surgical System, and all the SPIDER procedures were performed using the SPIDER Surgical System.

RESULTS

The SILC, SIRC, and SPIDER groups consisted respectively of 129 (76.3%), 131 (78.9%), and 136 (81.9%) women with the respective mean ages of 44.5 ± 14.3, 51.6 ± 15.9, and 46.4 ± 15.2 years. The mean body mass indexes (BMIs) were respectively 29.1 ± 5.6, 29.4 ± 6.2, and 27.5 ± 4.8 kg/m(2), and the mean surgical times were 37.1 ± 13.3, 63.0 ± 25.2, and 52.8 ± 18.7 min. The total hospital stays were respectively 1.3 ± 5.3, 1.2 ± 2.2, and 1.5 ± 2.6 days, and complications were seen respectively in three SILC cases (1.8%), three SIRC cases (1.8%), and two SPIDER cases (1.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study demonstrate similar results among the three platforms for most of the parameters measured. The SILC procedure appears to be superior to SIRC and SPIDER in terms of surgical time, but selection bias could be the cause. The SILS, SIRC, and SPIDER procedures all are similar in terms of complication profile. It can be concluded that SILC, SIRC, and SPIDER all are feasible and safe alternatives when used for single-incision cholecystectomy.

Safety and feasibility for single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy in local community hospital: a retrospective comparison with conventional 4-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility for single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) by retrospective comparison with conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CLC) in a local community hospital.

METHODS

SILC was introduced and performed in 57 patients for benign gallbladder diseases. Their clinical data were compared with those of 62 patients treated with CLC. They included patient demographic data and operative outcomes.

RESULTS

SILC was attempted in 57 patients and 52 cases (91.2%) were successfully completed. There were no statistical differences between the 2 groups in terms of operative time, blood loss, and postoperative complications. The length of hospital stay in the SILC group was significantly shorter compared with CLC (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

SILC has been successfully introduced in a local community hospital. The safety and feasibility was also confirmed. The SILC procedure may become 1 standard option for the treatment of benign gallbladder diseases.

[Use of percutaneous needles in the feasability of single-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy]

INTRODUCTION

The usefulness of percutaneous needles (PN) to replace traditional assistance ports in mini-invasive techniques with a single port is analyzed and their feasibility for conducting a single port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SPLC) is demonstrated.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective, linear and descriptive study covering 2,431 patients with a diagnosis of acute and non-acute gallbladder disease has been conducted. The patients underwent a single port laparoscopic cholecystectomy using some type of PNs, replacing the assisting ports used in traditional laparoscopic cholecystechtomy (TLC). Based on the progressive use of PNs-reins (R), hooked needles (HN) and passing suture needles (PSN)-to carry out the SPLC technique, 3 groups have been established: A, B and C. The results were compared using a Student T test, odds ratio and CI and were analyzed by means of the SPSS software v. 13.0.

RESULTS

The use of PNs showed an increased feasibility for the laparoscopic procedure, as they were included in the surgical technique. The R were useful when carrying out the SPLC in 78% of the cases and when the HK were added, the results increased to 88%. When using the 3 types (R, HN and PSN), the results increased by 96%. Statistical significance was obtained with these values: chi 2=67.13 and P<.001; odds ratio and 95% CI became significant when comparing the B/C, A/C, and A-B/C groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The PNs, replacing the assisting ports in laparoscopy, make it possible to attain a feasibility of the process in 96% of the cases. This percentage was similar to what is achieved with the TLC, which places the one port laparoscopy surgery technique as an advantageous and economic alternative. This application of the PNs could be made extensive to other single-port techniques, with a multi-valve platform and natural orifice surgery.

Single-incision versus conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with uncomplicated gallbladder disease: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard treatment for cholecystectomy. Recently, single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) has been suggested as an alternative technique.

METHODS

Six databases were searched and reference lists of retrieved articles were checked to identify eligible studies. Data from randomized clinical trials related to the safety and effectiveness of SILC versus conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CLC) were extracted by 2 independent reviewers. Odds ratio and mean differences were calculated with 95% confidence intervals based on intention-to-treat analyses whenever possible.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies with 1113 patients met the eligibility criteria. Methodologic quality was unclear in most trails. Operating time was significantly longer in the single-incision laparoscopic surgery group compared with the CLC group (P<0.00001). Cosmesis was improved in single-incision laparoscopic patients at 1 month (P<0.00001). The pooled mean difference in pain scores at 24 hours was -0.75 in favor of the SILC technique (P=0.04). There was no significant difference in the conversion rates, adverse events, analgesia requirements, or the length of hospital stay between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The current evidence shows that patients with uncomplicated cholelithiasis or polypoid lesions of the gallbladder who prefer a better cosmetic outcome, SILC offers a safe alternative to CLC. Further high-powered randomized trials are need to determine whether SILC truly offer any advantages, especially be focused on failure of technique, adverse events, cosmesis, and quality of life.

SILC for SILC: Single Institution Learning Curve for Single-Incision Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Objectives. We report the single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) learning experience of 2 hepatobiliary surgeons and the factors that could influence the learning curve of SILC. Methods. Patients who underwent SILC by Surgeons A and B were studied retrospectively. Operating time, conversion rate, reason for conversion, identity of first assistants, and their experience with previous laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) were analysed. CUSUM analysis is used to identify learning curve. Results. Hundred and nineteen SILC cases were performed by Surgeons A and B, respectively. Eight cases required additional port. In CUSUM analysis, most conversion occurred during the first 19 cases. Operating time was significantly lower (62.5 versus 90.6 min, P = 0.04) after the learning curve has been overcome. Operating time decreases as the experience increases, especially Surgeon B. Most conversions are due to adhesion at Calot's triangle. Acute cholecystitis, patients' BMI, and previous surgery do not seem to influence conversion rate. Mean operating times of cases assisted by first assistant with and without LC experience were 48 and 74 minutes, respectively (P = 0.004). Conclusion. Nineteen cases are needed to overcome the learning curve of SILC. Team work, assistant with CLC experience, and appropriate equipment and technique are the important factors in performing SILC.

Single-site robotic cholecystectomy: efficiency and cost analysis

BACKGROUND

Single-incision surgery has gained in popularity, and the recent development of specialized robotic and laparoscopic instruments may remove some of the ergonomic and technical difficulties associated with this approach. However, questions of cost and efficiency remain.

METHODS

We prospectively collected perioperative outcome and efficiency (operative time, case volume) data for our single-site robotic cholecystectomy cases and retrospectively reviewed data for our single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy cases.

RESULTS

There were no differences in patient characteristics or perioperative outcomes between the robotic (n = 20) and laparoscopic (n = 10) groups; operative times were equivalent (84.6 vs 85.5 min; p = 0.8737) and blood loss and complications were minimal. There was a higher robotic case volume, with an average of two robotic cases (range 1-4)/day vs one/day for laparoscopic cases (range 1-1; p = 0.0306). Streamlined instrument costs were essentially equivalent.

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic single-site cholecystectomy is a safe, cost-effective alternative to single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy in a robot-existing model.

Present and future advanced laparoscopic surgery

Modern laparoscopy, starting with Kurt Semm's insufflators and the first successful appendectomies, has only been around for approximately 30 years. Since those early successes, the technology has grown from the inception of basic laparoscopy to endoscopic surgery through natural orifices, and it continues to evolve by leaps and bounds with computer-assisted surgery and improved robotics in surgery. Without question, laparoscopy has revolutionized the way we perform standard surgery, especially relative to the techniques that had been used for hundreds of years. Despite the development of multiple novel technologies since the 1980s, very little has changed with regard to basic conceptualizations and practice of laparoscopy. In this review article, we will describe the highlights of recent advanced laparoscopic surgery procedures, their potential applications within the field of surgery, and how these advances may impact and improve future quality and patient outcomes.

Use of the SAND balloon catheter in single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis

INTRODUCTION

SILS for acute cholecystitis is technically challenging because of the difficulties in obtaining optical surgical field.

MATERIALS AND SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

A 2-cm incision was made through the umbilicus, a single port and trocars were introduced, and the abdomen was then insufflated. A 5-mm SAND balloon punctured the abdominal wall and then the gallbladder wall. The distal and proximal balloons were inflated to prevent bile leakage, and the bile was aspirated. The collapsed gallbladder was then retracted cephalad, the critical structures were exposed, and the cystic artery and duct were divided. The gallbladder was dissected and removed through the umbilicus, and the abdomen was closed. We performed this procedure in three cases with acute cholecystitis. Operative times were 95, 133 and 244 min, blood loss was 5, 10 and 43 mL, and postoperative hospital stay was 2, 2 and 3 days, respectively.

DISCUSSION

The single-incision laparoscopic approach with the SAND balloon is a feasible technique for acute cholecystitis.

Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy for cholecystolithiasis coinciding with cavernous transformation of the portal vein: report of a case

Background

Cavernous transformation of the portal vein (CTPV) is a rare vascular deformity. It is thought to be secondary to extra-hepatic portal vein obstruction, with formation of serpiginous collateral vessels around the extra-hepatic bile duct, and even the gallbladder. Surgery is difficult because the vessels have irregular courses, are somewhat fragile and bleed easily. Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy, an emerging procedure for symptomatic cholecystolithiasis, has limitations especially in anatomically complex cases.

Case presentation

We describe a 44-year-old woman with symptomatic cholecystolithiasis. Computed tomography revealed a series of tortuous collateral veins at the liver hilum, with the extra-hepatic portal vein occluded at the level of the spleno-portal junction. However, the distended vessels were not particularly close to the cystic duct. We performed single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) for cholecystectomy via a trans-umbilical incision. By pulling the cystic duct out along with neighboring cavernous vessels, we were able to secure detachment of the cystic duct from Calot’s triangle and ligation of the cystic artery. Total operating time was 132 minutes and blood loss was 370 grams. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 2 with no perfusion abnormalities in the liver.

Conclusion

We must pay meticulous attention to the area of Calot’s triangle when performing SILS cholecystectomy with CTPV. SILS cholecystectomy might be an option in highly experienced facilities.

Incisional hernia rate may increase after single-port cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

The major concerns of single-port cholecystectomy are port-site hernia and cost. Essentially, a larger transumbilical incision is more likely to increase the incidence of incisional hernia. The effect of single-port cholecystectomy on hospital cost is controversial. This study evaluated single-port cholecystectomy and traditional four-port cholecystectomy with respect to perioperative outcomes, hospital cost, and postoperative complications.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 2010 and March 2011, 52 patients underwent single-port cholecystectomy, and 111 patients underwent traditional laparoscopic cholecystectomy. We used equal instruments in patients undergoing operation with the same surgical technique. Demographics, diagnosis, operative data, complications, length of hospital stay, and cost were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were significantly older than patients undergoing single-port cholecystectomy (55.8±13.8 years versus 48.7±12.7 years, P=.002). The trocar site hernia rate was 1.8% in laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and the port-site hernia rate was 5.8% in single-port cholecystectomy. This is the highest rate reported in the literature for port-site hernia following single-port cholecystectomy. Surgical techniques were not different in terms of conversion to open surgery, postoperative hospital stay, and operative time. The relative cost of single-port cholecystectomy versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy was 1.54.

CONCLUSIONS

Although single-port cholecystectomy seems to be a feasible surgical technique, it is not superior over the traditional laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Single-port cholecystectomy is equal to laparoscopic cholecystectomy with respect to conversion to open surgery, postoperative hospital stay, and operative time, but it is associated with high hospital cost and high port-site hernia rate.

Cost assessment of instruments for single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy

This study concludes that a modified single-incision procedure for cholecystectomy using 2 regular ports inserted through the umbilicus can be performed at lower cost than a conventional 4-port procedure.

Background and Objectives:

Specially designed surgical instruments have been developed for single-incision laparoscopic surgery, but high instrument costs may impede the implementation of these procedures. The aim of this study was to compare the cost of operative implements used for elective cholecystectomy performed as conventional laparoscopic 4-port cholecystectomy or as single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods:

Two consecutive series of patients undergoing single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy were assessed: (1) single-incision cholecystectomy using a commercially available multichannel port (n=80) and (2) a modified single-incision cholecystectomy using 2 regular trocars inserted through the umbilicus (n=20) with transabdominal sutures for gallbladder mobilization (puppeteering technique). Patients who underwent conventional 4-port cholecystectomy during the same time period (n=100) were selected as controls.

Results:

The instrumental cost of the single-incision cholecystectomy using a commercial port was significantly higher (median, $1123) than the cost for conventional 4-port (median $441, P < .0005) and modified single-incision cholecystectomy (median $342, P < .0005). The cost of the modified single-incision procedure was significantly lower than that for the 4-port cholecystectomy (P < .0005).

Conclusion:

The modified single-incision procedure using 2 regular ports inserted through the umbilicus can be performed at lower cost than conventional 4-port cholecystectomy.

Double incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (DILC) with routinary intra-operative cholangiography (IOC) : less trauma, same safety. Report on 30 consecutive non-selected cases

Laparoscopic approach for cholecystectomy is, actually, the gold standard for gallbladder surgical benign diseases. Single transumbilical incision can further reduce abdominal wall trauma. Two main related issues are still to be enlighten: difficulty in obtaining a clear exposure of the Calot's triangle and routinely use of intra-operative cholangiography (IOC). A standardized technique of double incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (DILC) with routine IOC is described. Between January and May 2012, 30 consecutive patients scheduled for elective cholecystectomy underwent DILC with IOC. Exclusion criteria were: clinical and/or radiological suspect of gallbladder malignancy/acute cholecystitis (AC)/common duct stones; ASA > 3; previous extensive abdominal surgery. Follow-up was performed at 7, 30 and 60 days postoperatively. Three 5-mm trocars through the umbilicus and one 3-mm subcostally on the right are used, along with a 30° laparoscopic camera. IOC is performed through the 3-mm channel. Median age was 49.5 years (range 24-78); female/male was 21/9. Median BMI was 27.4 (range 16.2-38.9). AC was encountered in five cases (17 %). Synchronous AC and choledocolithiasis occurred in one case (3 %), requiring conversion to laparoscopic choledocolithotomy. Additional ports were required in these latter five patients (17 %). IOC was routinely attempted in all patients, succeeding in 26 (86 %). Median operative 'skin to skin' time was 47.8 min (range 25-75). In the subgroup not receiving IOC, median operative time was 35 min (range 25-45); 51.5 min as median time (range 25-75) was reported for the subgroup undergone the entire planned procedure. No intraoperative complications occurred. Median length of stay was 1.51 days (range 1-5). Postoperative minor complications occurred in three patients (10 %) and wound umbilical infection occurred in one (3.4 %). DILC with the routine use of IOC seems to be repeatable and safe. Even if DILC seems more easily learnt, further studies are needed to address this issue.

Recent advances in laparoscopic surgery

Laparoscopic surgery has been widely adopted and new technical innovation, procedures and evidence based knowledge are persistently emerging. This review documents recent major advancements in laparoscopic surgery. A PubMed search was made in order to identify recent advances in this field. We reviewed the recent data on randomized trials in this field as well as papers of systematic review. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most frequently performed procedure, followed by laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Although bile duct injuries are relatively uncommon (0.15%-0.6%), intraoperative cholangiography still plays a role in reducing the cost of litigation. Laparoscopic bariatric surgery is the most commonly performed laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgery in the USA, and laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is the treatment of choice for intractable gastroesophageal reflux disease. Recent randomized trials have demonstrated that laparoscopic gastric and colorectal cancer resection are safe and oncologically correct procedures. Laparoscopic surgery has also been widely developed in hepatic, pancreatic, gynecological and urological surgery. Recently, SILS and robotic surgery have penetrated all specialties of abdominal surgery. However, evidence-based medicine has failed to show major advantages in SILS, and the disadvantage of robotic surgery is the high costs related to purchase and maintenance of technology. Laparoscopic surgery has become well developed in recent decades and is the choice of treatment in abdominal surgery. Recently developed SILS techniques and robotic surgery are promising but their benefits remain to be determined.

Experiences of single incision cholecystectomy

PURPOSE

Single incision laparoscopic surgery in suitable cases is preferred today because it results in less postoperative pain, a more rapid recovery period, more comfort, and a better cosmetic appearance from smaller incisions. This study aims to present our experiences with single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy to evaluate the safety and feasibility of this procedure.

METHODS

A total of 150 patients who underwent single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy between January 2009 and December 2011 were evaluated retrospectively. In this serial, two different access techniques were used for single incision laparoscopy.

RESULTS

Single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed successfully on 150 patients. Median operative time was 29 (minimum-maximum=5-66) minutes. Median duration of hospital stay was found to be 1.33 (minimum-maximum=1-8) days. Patients were controlled on the seventh postoperative day. Bilier complication was not seen in the early period. Five patients showed port site hernia complications. Other major complications were not seen in the 36-month follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

Operation time of single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy is significantly shortened with the learning curve. Single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy seems a safe method.

Initial experience in single-incision transumbilical laparoscopic liver resection: indications, potential benefits, and limitations

Background. Single-incision transumbilical laparoscopic liver resection (SITLLR) has been recently described in limited series. We report our experience in SITLLR and discuss the future of this approach in terms of indications, potential benefits, and limitations, with a special reference to laparoscopic liver resection (LLR). Patients and Methods. Six patients underwent SITLLR. Indications were biliary cysts (3 cases), hydatid cysts (2), and colorectal liver metastasis (1). Procedures consisted in cysts unroofing, left lateral lobectomy, pericystectomy, and wedge resection. SITLLR was performed with 11 mm reusable trocar, 10 or 5 mm 30° scopes, 10 mm ultrasound probe, curved reusable instruments, and straight disposable bipolar shears. Results. Neither conversion to open surgery nor insertion of supplementary trocars was necessary. Median laparoscopic time was 105.5 minutes and median blood loss 275 mL. Median final umbilical scar length was 1.5 cm, and median length of stay was 4 days. No early or late complications occurred. Conclusion. SITLLR remains a challenging procedure. It is feasible in highly selected patients, requiring experience in hepatobiliary and laparoscopic surgery and skills in single-incision laparoscopy. Apart from cosmetic benefit, our experience and literature review did not show significant advantages if compared with multiport LLR, underlying that specific indications remain to be established.

Meta-analysis of prospective randomized studies comparing single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) and conventional multiport laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CMLC)

BACKGROUND

Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) has gained acceptance among surgeons as there is a trend to minimize the invasiveness of laparoscopy. The aim of this meta-analysis has been to assess the feasibility and safety of SILC when compared to conventional multiport laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CMLC).

METHODS

A literature search for trials comparing SILC and CMLC was performed. Studies were reviewed for the outcomes of interest: patient characteristics; operative time and conversion rate; postoperative pain; length of hospital stay; postoperative complications; and patient satisfactory score (0-10). Standardized mean difference (SMD) was calculated for continuous variables and odds ratio for qualitative variables.

RESULTS

Twelve prospective randomized trials comparing SILC and CMLC were analyzed. Overall, 892 patients were randomized to either SILC (465) or CMLC (427). Operative time was significantly longer in SILC (63.0 vs. 45.8 min, SMD = 1.004, 95% CI = 0.434-1.573). Patient satisfactory score significantly favored SILC (8.2 vs. 7.2, SMD = -0.759, 95% CI = -1.064 to -0.455). No other difference was found.

CONCLUSIONS

SILC is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of uncomplicated benign gallbladder disease with a significant patient satisfaction. New multicenter randomized trials are expected to evaluate SILC in more complex circumstances such as acute cholecystitis, previous abdominal surgery, and severe obesity.

Current status and future directions of robotic single-site surgery: a systematic review

CONTEXT

Despite the increasing interest in laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) worldwide, the actual role of this novel approach in the field of minimally invasive urologic surgery remains to be determined. It has been postulated that robotic technology could be applied to LESS to overcome the current constraints.

OBJECTIVE

To summarize and critically analyze the available evidence on the current status and future of robotic applications in single-site surgery.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic literature review was performed in April 2011 using PubMed and the Thomson-Reuters Web of Science. In the free-text protocol, the following terms were applied: robotic single site surgery, robotic single port surgery, robotic single incision surgery, and robotic laparoendoscopic single site surgery. Review articles, editorials, commentaries, and letters to the editor were included only if deemed to contain relevant information. In addition, cited references from the selected articles and from review articles retrieved in the search were assessed for significant manuscripts not previously included. The authors selected 55 articles according to the search strategy based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis criteria.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

The volume of available clinical outcomes of robotic LESS (R-LESS) has considerably grown since the pioneering description of the first successful clinical series of single-port robotic procedures. So far, a cumulative number of roughly 150 robotic urologic LESS cases have been reported by different institutions across the globe with a variety of techniques and port configurations. The feasibility of robot-assisted single-incision colorectal procedures, as well as of many gynecologic procedures, has also been demonstrated. A novel set of single-site instruments specifically dedicated to LESS is now commercially available for use with the da Vinci Si surgical system, and both experimental and clinical use have been reported. However, the current robotic systems were specifically designed for LESS. The ideal robotic platform should have a low external profile, the possibility of being deployed through a single access site, and the possibility of restoring intra-abdominal triangulation while maintaining the maximum degree of freedom for precise maneuvers and strength for reliable traction. Several purpose-built robotic prototypes for single-port surgery are being tested.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant advances have been achieved in the field of R-LESS since the first reported clinical series in 2009. Given the several advantages offered by current the da Vinci system, it is likely that its adoption in this field will increase. The recent introduction of purpose-built instrumentation is likely to further foster the application of robotics to LESS. However, we are still far from the ideal robotic platform. Significant improvements are needed before this technique might reach widespread adoption beyond selected centers. Further advances in the field of robotic technology are expected to provide the optimal interface to facilitate LESS.