Single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) is an evolving alternative to traditional laparoscopic surgery and can offer select patients the same laparoscopic surgery through a single skin incision that in most cases can be completely hidden. After healing, there is usually no visible scars.
There are several terms used to describe single incision laparoscopic surgery. These terms are all variations on the same theme and some of them include:
- SILS = single incision laparoscopic surgery
- SPA = single port access surgery
- LESS =
laparoendoscopic single site surgery
Procedures
What SILS procedures are currently offered?
- SILS Cholecystectomy (gallbladder): In select patients, gallbladders can now be removed through a small incision that is hidden in the belly button. In
October, 2008 our group performed the first SILS cholecystectomy at Mount Sinai Medical Center and continue to serve as leaders in this technique. See our publication as presented at Digestive Disease Week in Chicago in 2009 and featured on Digestive Disease Week’s Best of 2009 CDRom . - SILS Inguinal Hernia (
groin hernia ): While SILS has been demonstrated in a variety of procedures, its use for inguinal hernias is just emerging. Our group was the first to describe a series of SILS inguinal hernia repairs in the country. Using a single skin incision and a SPA device, the steps and instruments used to performa SILS TEP are unchanged from traditional laparoscopy. Advantages and disadvantages remain to be proven. - SILS Adjustable Gastric Band and Sleeve gastrectomy: Select patients can now have their bariatric surgery performed using
a SILS technique. - SILS Colon resection: As SILS techniques evolve, more complex operations like colon and small bowel resections can also be done using a single incision technique. Again, not all patients are appropriate candidates, so please make an appointment with one of our physicians to see if you do.
- Other operations: You may be a candidate for a single incision procedure, BUT ONLY after a thorough review of your history and physical exam. Please make an appointment with one of our doctors to discuss your specific case.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS)?
Single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) is an evolving alternative to traditional laparoscopic
surgery, and can offer select patients the same laparoscopic surgery through a single skin incision that in most cases can be completely hidden. After healing, there is usually no visible scars - Are there any advantages to SILS?
SILS refers to the type and size ofincision made in the abdominal wall. Most operations are still performed the same way on the inside. Therefore, there may not be a known outcome advantage for this technique other than a more favorable cosmetic result. - Are there any disadvantages to SILS?
Because SILS is still an evolving technique, the disadvantages have not yet been thoroughly described. Like all surgery, there are risks involved. Please discuss these risks in detail with your surgeon. - Am I a candidate for SILS?
We believe in safety first. While a cosmetically optimal operation is sometimes feasible, not everyone is an appropriate candidate. Please make an appointment with one of our doctors to discuss your specific case. - Is SILS covered by my insurance?
SILS procedures are scheduled and coded for in the same manner as their traditional laparoscopic procedure counterparts. The procedures themselves are unchanged (asils cholecystectomy is still a cholecystectomy). Therefore, if your insurance would cover your traditional operation, then there is no difference in coverage fora SILS technique. - How do I make an appointment?
Please contact us today to make an appointment with one of our doctors.
Publications
- SILS hernia article (PDF Document)
