The First Additional Port During Single-Incision Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) has become increasingly popular. Regarding the difficulties of SILC in acute cholecystitis, additional port insertion is sometimes required. However, appropriate locations for additional port insertion have not been well studied. In the present study, the safety and effectiveness of the first additional port insertion in the epigastric region during SILC was assessed. METHODS: Additional port insertions were needed in 52 of 113 patients who underwent SILC for acute cholecystitis. The first port was inserted in the epigastric region and the second (if required) was inserted in the right lateral subcostal area. A drainage catheter was positioned through the epigastric port. RESULTS: One additional port was inserted in 43 patients and two additional ports were inserted in 9 patients. Mean operation time was 45.0 minutes in the Pure SILC group and 83.3 minutes in Additional Port group. Mean hospital stay was 3.7 days in the Pure SILC group and 5.9 days in Additional Port group. There was no open conversion. Intra-operative (n = 5) and postoperative bile leakages (n = 2) were identified in six patients. Timing of operation after onset of symptoms was significantly greater in the group with bile duct injury than in those without bile duct injury in patients who required additional ports. CONCLUSIONS: The first additional port in the epigastric area during SILC for acute cholecystitis helps to complete the operation without open conversion. However, the procedure can be performed safely in selective patients with relatively short duration of symptoms.