Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: two-port technique.

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: Conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy requires four ports. The present study describes a new laparoscopic cholecystectomy technique using two ports only.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Sixty-two consecutive patients with symptomatic gallstones underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy using this two-port technique. The operation requires a straightforward laparoscope and a percutaneous sling to retract the gallbladder laterally and cephalad.

RESULTS

The two-port method was successful in 52 patients; eight required an additional port, and two required conversion to open surgery. Our results showed that the operating time and complication rate were comparable to those in other series using the conventional laparoscopic method.

CONCLUSION

The two-port method is technically more demanding, and should only be used to remove simple, uncomplicated gallbladders. The surgeon should always be prepared to insert more trocars or convert to open procedures when necessary.