Current Status of Single-Site Robotic Cholecystectomy, Its Feasibility, Economic and Overall Impact

This paper reviews recent, though limited, articles on the topic of robotic single-site cholecystectomy (RSSC), a relatively new approach that is rapidly advancing in both research and clinical application. Laparoscopy has typically been the standard method of performing a cholecystectomy, but recent medical advances have led to usage of the da Vinci® Surgical System robot technology to assist in performing the procedure. Several studies have compared outcomes of the RSSC to single-port laparoscopic cholecystectomies and to the traditional multiport laparoscopic cholecystectomies. Single port advocates think it as a tool with better cosmetic results and questionable less post-operative pain; however, single port also limits the maneuverability of the instrument arms, making some tasks more difficult, bigger single incision, more chances of post operative hernia. Overall, the RSSC is considered as safe with no worse outcomes regarding pain, hospital stay length, operative time, and patient satisfaction when compared to other cholecystectomy methods. Future direction includes expanding use of the miniature instruments and further advanced tools to overcome manipulation and visualization limitations. Thus far, though, there may be enough evidence with these smaller studies to support lack of harm with more use of resources.