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.