SAGE Sponcor: Vic Velanovich, MD
Background: The traditional four incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy is being challenged by new innovative single incision approach. We present our refined technique of the single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC), step by step, in an attempt to standardize this new technique and bring it as close as possible to the traditional four incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Method: 12 consecutive patients underwent elective single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy at a major laparoscopic center by the same surgeon (AH). The technique was divided into 5 stages. Each stage is made of several steps for a total of 15 steps. These steps will be illustrated and explained in the presentation. The stages are:
A) Incision and trocar placement (4 steps). B) Exposure (4 steps).
C) Dissection & clipping (3 steps) D) Hemostasis & clean up (2 steps).
E) Extraction and wound closer (2 steps).
Results: We started the technique using single incision and three trocars with retractable curved dissectors & rigid 45 degreeangle scope. After refining the technique the operative timewas decreased from an average of 73 minutes in the first 4 cases to an average of 39 minutes in the last 4 cases, a 47% decrease (Fig.1).
Only complication was entry into the gallbladder during dissection from
the liver bed in three patients. Nine patients were discharged the same day and three the following day.
Conclusion: Single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be used effectively for elective removal of the gallbladder with the same length of stay, operative time, and patients’ safety as the traditional four-incision method. The technique can be taught to surgical residents maintaining reasonable operative time and low intra-operative complications.
Session: Poster
Program Number: P479
