Flexible single-incision surgery: a fusion technique.
BACKGROUND
The development of natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery has led to other techniques, such as single-incision surgery. The use of the flexible endoscope for single-incision surgery paves the way for further refinement of both surgical methods.


OBJECTIVE
To describe a new, single-incision surgical technique, namely, flexible single-incision surgery.


METHODS
Assessment of the safety and effectiveness of endoscopic cholecystectomy in a series of 30 patients. This technique consists of a single umbilical incision through which a flexible endoscope is introduced and consists of 2 parallel entry ports that provide access to nonarticulated laparoscopic instruments.


RESULTS
The technique was applied in all patients for whom it was prescribed. No general or surgical wound complications were noted. Surgical time was no longer than usual for single-port surgery.


CONCLUSIONS
Flexible single-incision surgery is a new single-site surgical technique offering the same level of patient safety, with additional advantages for the surgeon at minimal cost.
Consorcio Hospital General Universitario de Valencia, Valencia, Spain. drjfnoguera@hotmail.com
José F
JF
Noguera
Carlos
C
Dolz
Angel
A
Cuadrado
José
J
Olea
Juan
J
García
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002763:Cholecystectomy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D019723:Endoscopes; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D057605:Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery / Q000295:instrumentation*; D011446:Prospective Studies