Benefits of single-incision laparoscopy unclear

(HealthDay)—There is limited data available to demonstrate the safety and feasibility of minimally invasive, single-incision laparoscopy, according to a technology assessment published in the August issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' Committee on Gynecologic Practice examined the current scientific literature in order to assess the safety and feasibility of single-incision laparoscopy.

The committee found that there is limited data, mostly from heterogeneous small retrospective case series, to demonstrate the safety and feasibility of single-incision surgery. Currently available evidence demonstrates no substantial clinical advantage of single-incision surgery over traditional laparoscopy. The committee calls for large, prospective studies to compare traditional laparoscopy with single-incision laparoscopy for various gynecological indications. Additionally, issues of ergonomics, surgeon learning curve, and the need for special instrumentation need further study.

"At this time, the available evidence demonstrates no distinct clinical advantage of either single-incision laparoscopy or a robot-assisted single-site platform compared with traditional laparoscopy, and issues regarding ergonomics, surgeon learning curve, and need for special instrumentation still need to be addressed," the authors write.