Transumbilical Single-Incision Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

Background: Sleeve gastrectomy has become an established primary bariatric surgical technique. Its relatively lower complexity has made it eligible to be performed by single-incision laparoscopy (single-incision laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, SILSG). The aim of this paper is to present our SILSG technique and surgical outcomes and demonstrate that SILSG is a safe and feasible procedure using conventional laparoscopic instruments.

Methods: All patients who underwent SILSG since December 2012 in our institution were analyzed. The operative technique involved creation of a transumbilical incision and the introduction of a GelPoint device with four trocars. Rigid instruments were used in all patients. Gastric transection was performed 4 cm proximal to the pylorus and calibrated with a 36-Fr bougie. Hemostasis of the staple line was achieved with metallic clips.

Results: A total of 74 patients underwent SILSG. Their mean age and body mass index were 34.2 ± 9.2 years and 34.0 ± 3.2 kg/m² (range 30.0–42.7 kg/m²), respectively. The mean operative time was 48 ± 10 min. No reoperations or deaths occurred. One patient developed portal vein thrombosis. The mean length of hospital stay was 2.4 ± 2.0 days. The cosmetic result was satisfactory in all patients.

Conclusions: SILSG is a safe and feasible procedure when performed with the technique described herein. This technique allows for the use of conventional laparoscopic instruments and reasonable operative times. The main benefit of the procedure is an excellent cosmetic result with virtually no visible scars.