Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS)

Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery, also known as SILS is not a treatment modality in and of itself, rather it is a method of performing surgery that enhances aesthetics in minimally invasive surgery by often “hiding” a single incision in the umbilicus or belly button.

A gallbladder removal, for example, is performed much in the same way as traditional laparoscopy. However, using SILS, all of the medical devices are passed through a single, larger port in the belly button rather than three or more smaller ports.

Advantages of the Single Incision Method

• Less post-operative pain due to fewer incisions
• Better cosmetic results, as the scar is largely hidden from plain sight
• The procedure can be easily converted to traditional laparoscopy if warranted

Disadvantages of this technique

• The surgeon has less range of motion, meaning that complex and multi-site procedures typically cannot be performed
• The number of usable medical devices is reduced
• Medical devices are in close proximity to one another

The disadvantages mentioned above make for a more technical and complex procedure. However, in the case of a gallbladder removal being performed by a well-trained and experienced SILS surgeon such as ours, these are easily overcome.

If you would like to discuss SILS for your gallbladder removal, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with one of our surgeons.