Technology Assessment No. 10: single-incision laparoscopy.

Abstract

Single-incision laparoscopy is a minimally invasive technique that decreases the number of operative sites used in traditional laparoscopic surgery to one skin incision, with the potential advantages of improving cosmesis and decreasing postoperative pain. There are limited data to demonstrate the safety and feasibility of single-incision surgery. Large prospective studies are needed that compare traditional laparoscopy with single-incision laparoscopy for various indications. Available evidence demonstrates no distinct clinical advantage of single-incision surgery compared with traditional laparoscopy, and issues regarding ergonomics, surgeon learning curve, and need for special instrumentation still need to be addressed.