Access: Transumbilical

Abstract

A variety of terms have been used to describe the technique now defined as LESS (laparoendoscopic single-site surgery). Despite being regarded by some as an evolution of standard laparoscopic surgery, LESS defies the most basic tenets of laparoscopy, including the triangulation of working instruments and external spacing to decrease intra- and extracorporeal clashing. It may be postulated that when this access site is the umbilicus, which is a natural scar, the cosmetic outcome will be optimal. Transumbilical LESS access can be obtained by performing a single a skin and fascial incision through which a single multichannel access platform is placed (single-port technique) or by placing several low-profile ports through separate fascial incisions (single site technique).