Single-Incision Versus Conventional Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: a Case Control Study

Background. Single-incision laparoscospic surgery (SILS) is a minimally invasive technique which can be used for treatment of gallbladder disease. To evaluate our initial experience, patients treated with SILS cholecystectomy were compared with a comparable group of patients treated with a conventional four trocart technique (LC). Methods : Between May 2009 and April 2010,60 SILS cholecystectomies were performed. These patients were matched by Body Mass Index (BMI) with 60 cases of conventional LC. Results : The operative time was significantly longer in the SILS group 55 min (range, 25-126 min) compared to 49 min (range, 28-75 min) for the LC group. Excluding the first 15 SILS cases the operative time became comparable to the conventional technique, with a mean operative time of 51 min (range, 25-90 min). No patients were converted to open cholecystectomy. In the SILS group 3 patients developed a wound infection, in the conventional LC group 2. Conclusion : SILS cholecystectomy seems to be a safe and feasible procedure when performed by an experienced laparoscopic surgeon. Complication rates are comparable to conventional LC. With a learning curve of around 10 to 15 procedures, operative times approach those of conventional LC.