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What is a single-port surgery?
A single-port appendectomy technique involves the removal of the appendix (appendectomy) using a single-port laparoscopic surgery.
A single-port surgery is performed through a single incision (cut) in the navel. It is less invasive surgery than traditional laparoscopic surgery. The major advantages of single-port surgery are
- minimal scarring,
- less discomfort,
- faster recovery and
- fewer complications.
What is a single-port appendectomy technique?
A single-port appendectomy technique involves the removal of the appendix (appendectomy) using a single-port laparoscopic surgery.
A single-port appendectomy is indicated in acute, recurrent and chronic inflammation of the appendix (appendicitis). The appendix is a small, tube-shaped pouch attached to the large intestine. The exact function of the appendix is unknown. It does not have a major role in the functioning of the body and is known as a vestigial organ.
Who should not undergo a single-port appendectomy?
Patients with the following conditions should not undergo this surgery:
- Pregnancy
- Perforations (burst) in the appendix
- Retrocecal appendix (appendix situated behind the cecum)
- Severe obesity
- Scar tissue in the abdomen after previous abdominal surgery
- Bleeding disorders
How is a single-port appendectomy performed?
Before the surgery
An appendectomy may or may not be an emergency procedure. There would be little time for preparation in case of an emergency.
In a planned appendectomy, the patient may need to refrain from eating eight hours before the surgery.
Additionally, certain medications may need to be discontinued.
During the procedure
The surgeon generally performs a single-port appendectomy under general anesthesia. As with the traditional laparoscopic methods, a single-port appendectomy does not use forceps for retraction. The surgeon makes an incision near the navel and passes a slender tool that has a tiny video camera and light on the end (laparoscope) through the incision. A surgical loop is created over which the appendix is pulled out.
The physician creates a loop using a synthetic suture material in the abdominal wall. Next, the physician passes a string through the loop to be attached to the appendix. The surgeon pulls out the appendix to create tension.
Lastly, the surgeon removes the appendix and takes it out from the abdomen. The surgeon cuts the loop and closes the incision.
After the surgery
You may feel pain at the incision site.
You can take pain-reliever medications to relieve pain.
You may feel nauseated or throw up after the surgery.
You can resume your normal activities approximately a week after the surgery.
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What are the complications of a single-port appendectomy?
An open appendectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the appendix.
Complications of a single-port appendectomy include
- Bleeding
- Infection in the surgery area
- Hernias
- Blood clots
- Heart problems
- Risk of hurting nearby organs
- Small risk of pus collection in the site of surgery
Inform your physician if you notice the following symptoms: