Single incision laparoscopic left colectomy

Abstract

Single incision laparoscopic left colectomy has been well described as a feasible procedure. While the principles are the same as conventional multiport laparoscopy, one needs to adapt to technical challenges in single incision laparoscopic surgery such as limited retraction, loss of triangulation and clashing of instruments. Because of the learning curve and technical challenges, single incision laparoscopic surgery has yet to become a standard procedure for left-sided colonic lesions. Selecting the appropriate patient and optimal lesions can affect the chance of success. Specialized equipments like deflectable tip laparoscope, articulating or curved instruments could potentially facilitate the surgery. Poor retraction is overcome by novel techniques. Overall, additional skills have to be acquired in order to master single incision left colectomy. This chapter describes the technical aspect of single incision laparoscopic left colectomy.