Umbilicus Saving Three-Port Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Background: Three-por t l aparoscop ic cholecystectomy (LC) has been reported to be technically acceptable. However, whether it offers any additional advantages remains controversial. Our aim was to compare clinical outcomes of the umbilicus saving 3-port LC versus standard 4-port LC. Methods: Medical records of 55 patients to whom either umbilicus saving 3-port LC or 4-port LC was planned were reviewed. Results: Umbilicus saving 3-port LC was planned in 18 patients and standard 4-port LC in 37 patients. There was no significant difference in operating time and conversion rate to open procedures between the two techniques. In 3-port LC, no post-operative complications occurred. Analgesia requirements were less frequent in 3-port LC, although it was not significant. Conclusion: We found that the use of 3-ports in LC did not affect procedure's safety, conversion rate, or operating time. This procedure has advantages including fewer scars, saving the umbilicus, and potentially better post-operative recovery.