Single-Port Laparoscopy: Market-Driven or True Advancement

Minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopy are increasingly used and constantly improving with advances in surgical instrumentation and operative technique. As a step toward less-invasive laparoscopy, single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) through the embryonic scar of the umbilicus has been proposed by multiple surgery specialties. A general overview suggests SILS colorectal surgery seems to be safe and feasible in major colorectal surgery in experienced hands; however, more trials are needed to demonstrate the benefits over conventional laparoscopic surgery. This article will examine the issues and data surrounding SILS in an attempt to distinguish its true and potential benefits from those hyped by market-driven declarations.