Single-Incision Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Using Conventional Laparoscopic Instruments and Comparison with Three-Port Cholecystectomy

Single-incision laparoscopic surgery also known as laparo-endoscopic single-site surgery for cholecystectomy is performed using a single umbilical skin incision through which a laparoscope and two instruments are introduced. It is virtually a "scarless" surgery. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy using conventional instruments and compare it with three-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Thirty patients who underwent single-incision cholecystectomy were compared to an equal number of patients who underwent three-port cholecystectomy. Both groups were assessed on the basis of operative time, intraoperative complications, postoperative pain, ambulation, hospital stay, and body image at first and third week. Single-incision cholecystectomy had the advantage of less postoperative pain, early ambulation, and better body image as compared to three-port cholecystectomy; the results being statistically significant. There was no statistically significant difference in operative time and hospital stay between the two groups. Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy using conventional instruments is a safe and effective surgery. It gives better cosmetic results, almost scarless surgery, without increasing the cost of surgery.