Single-incision laparoscopic hepatectomy for benign and malignant hepatopathy: initial experience in 8 Chinese patients.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) technique has been used in many surgical procedures, but there are few reports regarding liver surgeries. The purpose of this study was to perform single-incision laparoscopic hepatectomy (SILH) using standard laparoscopic instrumentation in 8 Chinese patients. The advantages and prospective future applications of SILH are also described. METHODS: Selected patients were hospitalized between December 2009 and November 2011. The procedure was accomplished through a 2.5-cm transabdominal wall incision using a laparoscope and 2 other instruments without the assistance of any articulating instruments or single multiport trocar. RESULTS: All procedures were successfully performed without the need for supplemental trocars. Postoperative pathological examinations were supportive of the preoperative diagnoses. No complications such as perioperative hemorrhage or infections occurred. CONCLUSION: SILH appears to be a safe approach and the results are cosmetically favorable. The accumulation of SILH experience and the development of instrumentation are needed for extensive use of this technique in hepatectomies.