Laparoendoscopic single site cholecystectomy: the first 100 patients

Abstract

Laparoendoscopic single site (LESS) surgery promises improved cosmesis and possibly less pain. However, given the small series reported to date, true estimates of the advantages and possible disadvantages of LESS surgery remain unknown. This study was undertaken to evaluate the first 100 patients undergoing LESS cholecystectomy at our institution. Patients referred for cholecystectomy since November 2007 were considered for LESS cholecystectomy. Outcomes, including blood loss, operative time, complications, and length of stay, were recorded. Outcomes are compared with an uncontrolled concurrent group of patients undergoing multi-incision laparoscopic (i.e., conventional) cholecystectomy. One hundred patients with a median age of 44 years underwent LESS cholecystectomy; 30 patients with a median age of 46 years underwent conventional cholecystectomy over the same time period. Median operative time (70 vs 66 minutes, P = 0.67, Mann-Whitney) and hospital length of stay (1 vs 1 day, P = 0.81, Mann-Whitney) were not different for patients undergoing LESS or multi-incision cholecystectomies, respectively. Five patients undergoing LESS cholecystectomy had postoperative complications: cystic duct stump leak (one), pain control issues (three), and urinary retention (one). LESS cholecystectomy is a safe and effective alternative to conventional cholecystectomy. It can be undertaken without added operative time and provides patients with minimal, if any, scarring.