Single-incision robotic cholecystectomy: A special emphasis on utilization of transparent glove ports to overcome limitations of single-site port

Background The current robotic platform overcomes some limitations of single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC), however, whether robotic surgery is a safe and feasible approach must be investigated. Methods Patients referred for elective surgery willing to undergo single-incision robotic cholecystectomy (SIRC) by consent were enrolled. All procedures were performed by the same team using the same surgical equipment. Results Thirty patients underwent SIRC. The mean overall operation time was 53.80 ± 15.20 min (range 32–80) and mean console time was 16.67 ± 5.63 min (range 11–30). The mean postoperative stay was 1.30 ± 0.54 days (range 1–3). There were no perioperative major complications. Conclusion SIRC can be rapidly learnt and safely performed while overcoming the ergonomic difficulties encountered during SILC. SIRC can be a viable alternative treatment for gallbladder diseases in selected patients with strong interest in cosmetic outcomes who are willing to pay the higher costs associated with SIRC.