Single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) is a new way of performing surgical procedures. Surgeons commonly make multiple small cuts on the abdominal wall to pass cameras and instruments for performing a laparoscopic operation. Single incision surgery is exactly what it states, i.e. the surgeon is making one incision through which the camera and instruments are passed to gain access to the abdominal cavity. Typically, the single incision is made in the belly button crease. The advantage of SILS surgery is cosmetic with possible decreased postoperative pain. With the advancement of technology which allows this to be done safely, this type of surgery is just starting to become noticed. Dr Fowler performed the first SILS LapBand in Hawaii in 2009. Other surgeons on the mainland have performed the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy via a SILS approach. Expect to see more of this technique in the next few years.
