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Systematic Review
Revised

Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials

[version 2; peer review: 1 approved, 2 approved with reservations]
PUBLISHED 18 Nov 2024
Author details Author details
OPEN PEER REVIEW
REVIEWER STATUS

Abstract

Background

Conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CMLC) has become the current ‘gold standard’ technique in gallbladder disease. Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) has gained attention due to its benefits in improving patient cosmetic results and pain reduction. We aim to assess the latest evidence on the feasibility, safety and surgical outcomes of SILC and CMLC.

Methods

We conducted searches for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in PubMed, PubMed Central (PMC), and Europe PMC between December 2011 and 2021. The latest search was conducted in January 2022. We analyzed several outcomes, including perioperative complications, estimated blood loss, operation time, conversion to open surgery, hospital stay, pain score, cosmesis, and days of return to work. Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) 2.0 tool was used to evaluate quality of studies. Mantel-Haenszel’s formula and Inverse Variance method were conducted to synthesize results. This study was accomplished in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines.

Results

A total of 37 studies were eligible, with a total of 2,129 and 2,392 patients who underwent SILC and CMLC. Our study demonstrated a superiority of SILC for the visual analog score (VAS) at six hours post-operation [mean difference (MD) -0.58 (95% CI -1.11, -0.05), p=0.03], cosmesis one-month post-operation [standard MD 2.12 (95% CI 1.10, 3.13), p<0.0001], and cosmesis six months post-operation [standard MD 0.53 (95% CI 0.06, 0.99), p<0.0001]. Meanwhile, SILC showed a longer operation time [MD 10.45 (95% CI 6.74, 14.17), p<0.00001]. In terms of VAS at four time points (4, 8, 12, and 24 hours), perioperative complications, estimated blood loss, conversion to open surgery, hospital stay and days to return to work, SILC did not differ from CMLC.

Conclusions

SILC is a safe, feasible and favorable procedure in terms of pain reduction and cosmetic results. The option between both procedures is based on surgeon preferences.

Registration: PROSPERO (CRD42022306532; 23 February 2022).

Keywords

Cholecystectomy, laparoscopic surgery, meta-analysis, minimal invasive surgery, systematic review

Revised Amendments from Version 1

We revise the discussion section to be more academic in nature and expand the conclusion section.

See the authors' detailed response to the review by Yunushan Furkan Aydoğdu

Introduction

For decades, conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CMLC) has been a favored procedure in gall bladder diseases.1 This technique differs from any laparoscopic surgery, which requires advanced technology and skill. The gains in CMLC aggregate the learning curve and surgical aftermaths.2 Many adjustments and modifications are made in CMLC; fundamentally, CMLC consists of four ports. The adaptations may be a reduced port size, such as 10 mm to 5 mm or 5 mm to 2/3 mm, or reduced port numbers. These changes intend to amend patient outcomes in any aspect.3

The curiosity about single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) has increased in the past years. A single incision implies when many ports are inserted at a single site (umbilicus). Many studies have demonstrated technical difficulty and increasing complications.4,5 A recent study indicated a feasible and valuable technique with superior cosmetic outcomes, pain reduction, and nil complications.6 We speculate that knowledge about SILC will improve in the following years.

Pros and cons remain disputable in many systematic reviews.712 We would like to update the recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding these techniques because there has not been a newer systematic review to analyze the latest amendment. The latest meta-analysis by Lyu et al.,12 determined that a limitation of their study was that only three and four ports of instruments, plus non-RCT were included; thus, our study addresses the limitations of the latest research and expects different outcomes. Our hypothesis is that SILC is superior to CMLC in all aspects. Consequently, this study aimed to assess and evaluate the latest evidence on the feasibility, safety, and surgical outcomes of SILC and CMLC.

Methods

Eligibility criteria

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis study from clinical trial studies. We registered this systematic review in PROSPERO (CRD42022306532) on 23 February 2022. Articles were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis if they fulfilled the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes and Study (PICOS) framework as follows:

  • P - Population: Adults aged >18 years old with body mass index (BMI) <35 kg/m2 with uncomplicated gall bladder disease who were eligible to undergo either SILC or CMLC with the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) Score I-III.13

  • I - Intervention: Patients who underwent SILC to treat their gall bladder diseases.

  • C - Comparator: Patients who underwent CMLC as surgical treatment for gall bladder diseases.

  • O - Outcomes: Bile duct injury (BDI), bile leakage, gallbladder perforation, wound infection, incisional hernia, total intraoperative complications, total post-operative complications, conversion to open cholecystectomy, operating time, estimated blood loss volume, length of hospital stay, cosmesis (satisfactory quantitative scores) at one month and six months post-operation, days to return to work, and post-operative pain score assessed by a visual analog score (VAS) at five-time points (4, 6, 8, 12, and 24 hours post-procedure).

  • S - Study design: Randomized clinical trials

All studies besides original articles (correspondence, letter to editor, or review articles), observational studies (cohort or case-control designs), case series, case report studies, studies reported in a language other than English, research focusing on pregnant women and populations below the age of 18 years were excluded.

Search strategy and study selection

We conducted systematic literature searches in three databases: PubMed (RRID:SCR_004846), PubMed Central (PMC) (RRID:SCR_004166), and Europe PubMed Central (EuroPMC) (RRID:SCR_005901) from December 2011 until December 2021. The latest search was conducted in January 2022. To filter the intended studies, combined keywords were used, but were not limited to, the following: “single-incision”, “single-port”, “single access”, “conventional”, “standard”, “multi-port”, “laparoscopic cholecystectomy”. Two researchers (RR and RVH) independently screened the titles and abstracts to find the eligible articles. Additional evaluation of references from eligible studies was also conducted to search for more potential articles. Full-text articles were then assessed independently according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. This study is reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines63 and the PRISMA diagram shows the strategy we employed during our study ( Figure 1).

21e01b71-4f2f-4337-b02d-f9675331f9f0_figure1.gif

Figure 1. PRISMA flowchart.

RISMA, Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses; EuroPMC, Europe PubMed Central; RCT, randomised controlled trial.

Data extraction and quality assessment

Two researchers (RR and RVH) independently conducted the data extraction process. An extraction form was developed to list information about the study, such as the study’s general information (title, authors, year of publication, study design), population characteristics, and outcomes measured. The data were then extracted through Covidence (RRID:SCR_016484). Conflicts in data abstraction were resolved by consensus and referring to the original article.

Two authors (RR and RVH) assessed the quality of each study involved in this review independently. The Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) 2.0 tool was used to evaluate the quality of clinical trial studies. This tool is comprised of five domains, including (1) bias arising from the randomization process; (2) bias due to deviations from intended interventions; (3) bias due to missing outcome data; (4) bias in measurement of the outcome; and (5) bias in the selection of the reported results. The final judgments of each domain were categorized as low risk, some concerns, or high risk. The summarized five domains of RoB were concluded by RR and RVH, whereas a discussion with AW resolved any discrepancies in the judgments to reach the final consensus.

Statistical analysis

Meta-analysis was done using Review Manager 5.4 (Cochrane Collaboration) and Comprehensive Meta-Analysis version 3 software. The Mantel-Haenszel formula was used to obtain the risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). At the same time, the Inverse Variance method was used to obtain the mean difference (MD), standardized mean difference (SMD), and standard deviation (SD). We used the random-effects model for all outcomes of interest in this study, regardless of heterogeneity. This meta-analysis assessed heterogeneity between studies by I-squared (I2; inconsistency). The I2 statistic with a value of <25% is considered a low degree of heterogeneity, 26-50% is a moderate degree of heterogeneity, and >50% is considered a high degree of heterogeneity. Funnel plot analysis was utilized to assess the qualitative risk of publication bias, while Egger’s regression method was used to evaluate the quantitative risk of publication bias.

Results

Study selection and study characteristics

The initial search generated 222 records, in which 37 RCTs were included for qualitative synthesis (systematic review) following the screening, removing duplication, and excluding of several studies ( Figure 1).1450 These final included RCTs yielded 2,129 and 2,392 patients who underwent SILC and CMLC. All patients had uncomplicated gall bladder diseases with ASA grade I-III and were eligible to undergo both techniques. The types of surgical ports ranged from conventional instruments to specific models. Three studies were double-blind RCTs, one was a single-blind RCT, and the remaining RCTs did not elaborate on the blinding method. A total of 10 studies were excluded due to including BMI >35 kg/m2, age <18 years old, and retrospective study.5160 The full details of data characteristics are available in Table 1.

Table 1. Data characteristics.

AuthorsYearType of port(s)Sample size, n Age, years, mean (SD) Male sex, n (%) BMI, kg/m2, mean (SD) ASA grade, mean (SD)
SILC CMLCSILC CMLC
Arezzo et al.142017Singe-port device10 mm port and two 2 mm port26327848.3 (15.8)NR26.9 (4.1)NR
Bingener et al.152016TriPort™ (Olympus)Two 10 mm and two 5 mm port555548.4 (16.2)21 (19.1%)31.7 (6.1)1.95 (0.5)
Borle et al.162014Conventional instrumentsTwo 11 mm and two 5 mm port303041.25 (13.09)17 (28.3%)23.2 (1.7)NR
Brown et al.172013SILS® port (Covidien)One 11 mm and three 5 mm port403945 (13.9)18 (22.8%)29.8 (6.0)NR
Bucher et al.182011TriPort™ (Olympus)Two 10 mm and two 5 mm port757546.12 (10.03)NR35.3 (2.5)2 (0.3)
Cao et al.192011Conventional instrumentsTwo 10 mm and one 5 mm port575161.0 (4.9)45 (41.7%)28.3 (4.7)1.85 (0.6)
Chang et al.202015SILS® port (Covidien)10 mm port (Genicon)505050.3 (12.9)39 (39%)25.5 (5.5)1.65 (0.5)
Deveci et al.212013SILS® port (Covidien)Two 10 mm and one 5 mm port505041.4 (12.1)12 (12%)28 (5.02)1.75 (0.5)
Ellatif et al.222013Conventional instrumentsTwo 10 mm and two 5 mm port12512547.3 (10.9)67 (26.8%)28.2 (5.7)1.55 (0.3)
Goel et al.232016Conventional instrumentsNR303038.5 (7.8)11 (18.3%)NRNR
Guo et al.242015Conventional instrumentsTwo 10 mm and one or two 5 mm port13841443.9 (12.1)137 (24.8%)24.9 (2.7)NR
Hajong et al.252016Conventional instrumentsTwo 10 mm and two 5 mm port3232NR12.50%NRNR
He et al.262015Conventional instrumentsOne 10 mm and two 5 mm port10010040.6 (13.3)99 (49.5%)26.1 (7.1)1.6 (0.5)
Ito et al.272019Single device (EZ ACCESS)One 12 mm and three 5 mm port585357.4 (12.5)47 (42.3%)24.5 (3.7)NR
Jorgensen et al.282014SILS® port (Covidien)One 12 mm and two 5 mm port606045.1 (5.4)NR25.7 (1.6)1.35 (0.5)
Justo-Janeiro et al.292014SILS® port (Covidien)Two 10 mm and one 5 mm port171743.4 (16.4)5 (14.7%)27.8 (3.9)1.5 (0.25)
Khorgami et al.302014Conventional instrumentsOne 10 mm and three 5 mm port303042.6 (11.8)17 (28.3%)27.3 (4.1)NR
Klein et al.312020TriPort™ or TriPort+™ (Olympus)Two 10 mm and one 5 mm port989547.2 (15.4)64 (33.1%)28.6 (6.1)1.6 (0.3)
Koirala et al.322019Conventional instrumentsTwo 10 mm and two 5 mm port10010041 (14.2)41 (20.5%)NRNR
Lai et al.332011SILS® port (Covidien)One 10 mm and three 5 mm port242753.1 (12.6)19 (37.3%)24.7 (2.9)1.5 (0.5)
Leung et al.342012NRNR364347.5 (19.2)25.70%28.5 (6.4)NR
Lirici et al.352011TriPort™ (Olympus)Two 12 mm and two 5 mm port202046.2 (13.2)12 (30%)24.8 (2.9)1.9 (0.5)
Luna et al.362013SITRACC deviceTwo 10 mm and two 5 mm ports2020NRNRNRNR
Lurje et al.372015SILS® port (Covidien)NR484846.0 (14.0)62 (64.6%)25.0 (4.0)1.5 (0.3)
Noguera et al.382013SILS® port (Covidien)One 1 mm and two 5 mm port202054.5 (7.1)7 (17.5%)29.0 (3.1)1.6 (0.5)
Partelli et al.392016Single Site Laparoscopic Access SystemTwo 10 mm and two 5 mm port302944.8 (12.9)22 (37.2%)24.2 (3.4)NR
Qu et al.402019Single portTwo 10 mm and two 5 mm port494246.4 (9.8)41 (45.1%)23.3 (2.7)NR
Rizwi et al.412014NRNR10010041.7 (8.3)84 (42%)NRNR
Saad et al.422013SILS® port (Covidien)Two 10 mm and two 5 mm port353547.0 (15.6)54 (77.1%)25.4 (2.8)1.6 (0.5)
Sasaki et al.432012SILS® port (Covidien)One 12 mm and three 5 mm port272757.4 (13.2)28 (51.8%)24.7 (3.2)NR
Solomon et al.442012SILS® port (Covidien)One 11 mm and three 5 mm port221137.4 (3.8)NR31.7 (1.7)NR
Subirana et al.452021TriPort+™ (Olympus)Two 10 mm and two 5 mm port373638.1 (10.3)9 (12.3%)26.3 (3.8)1.35 (0.3)
Sulu et al.462015SILS® port (Covidien)Two 5 mm and two 2 mm port303046.3 (9.7)21 (35%)29.4 (5.0)1.6 (0.5)
Ye et al.472015Single 5mm portNR100100NRNRNRNR
Yilmaz et al.482013SILS® port (Covidien)NR434049.7 (10.7)61 (73.4%)23.8 (3.6)2.0 (0.5)
Zhao et al.492016Single Site Laparoscopic Access SystemNR505048.1 (8.9)32 (32%)24.9 (3.8)NR
Zheng et al.502012A single Tri-port (Advanced Surgical Concept)Two 10 mm and one 5 mm port303045.2 (12.9)29 (48.3%)25.3 (3.8)NR

Risk of bias in studies

The Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool was applied to determine the quality of RCTs. A total of 33 studies were categorized as low risk of bias studies. Two studies were determined to have some concerns because the long-term follow-up results could not be fully concluded. The other two studies were evaluated for having a high risk of bias due to having a higher percentage of loss to follow-up and a high risk of false-positive results. The evaluation of RoB is summarized in Figure 2.

21e01b71-4f2f-4337-b02d-f9675331f9f0_figure2.gif

Figure 2. The overall judgment of included studies.

Outcome effects

Bile duct injury

A total of 17 studies (n=2,114) reported the BDI outcome. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not differ from the CMLC procedure in terms of risk for BDI [RR 0.83 (95% CI 0.17–4.04), p=0.82, I2=0%, random-effect modeling] ( Figure 3A).

21e01b71-4f2f-4337-b02d-f9675331f9f0_figure3.gif

Figure 3. Forrest plots of SILC vs. CMLC.

(A) Bile duct injury. (B) Bile leakage. (C) Gall bladder perforation. (D) Wound infection. SILC, single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy; CMLC, conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Bile leakage

A total of 16 studies (n=2,363) reported on the bile leakage outcome. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not differ from the CMLC procedure in terms of risk for bile leakage incidence [RR 1.31 (95% CI 0.72–2.39), p=0.38, I2=0%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 3B).

Gallbladder perforation

Nine studies (n=1,874) reported on the gallbladder perforation outcome. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not differ from the CMLC procedure in terms of gallbladder perforation incidence [RR 0.94 (95% CI 0.71–1.26), p=0.68, I2=0%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 3C).

Wound infection

A total of 24 studies (n=2,926) reported on the wound infection outcome. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not change the risk of wound infection incidence when compared with the CMLC procedure [RR 1.20 (95% CI 0.72–2.03), p=0.48, I2=0%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 3D).

Incisional hernia

A total of 28 studies (n=3,788) reported on the incisional hernia outcome. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not change the risk of incisional hernia incidence when compared with the CMLC procedure [RR 1.43 (95% CI 0.75–2.74), p=0.28, I2=0%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 4A).

21e01b71-4f2f-4337-b02d-f9675331f9f0_figure4.gif

Figure 4. Forrest plots of SILC vs. CMLC.

(A) Incisional hernia. (B) Total intra-operative complications. (C) Total post-operative complications. SILC, single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy; CMLC, conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Total intra-operative complications

A total of 26 studies (n=3,717) reported on the total intra-operative outcome. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not differ from the CMLC procedure in terms of the incidence of total intra-operative complications [RR 1.22 (95% CI 0.93–1.59), p=0.15, I2=0%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 4B).

Total post-operative complications

A total of 30 studies (n=3,882) reported on the total post-operative outcome. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not differ from the CMLC procedure in terms of the incidence of total post-operative complications [RR 1.04 (95% CI 0.93–1.59), p=0.15, I2=0%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 4C).

Estimated blood loss

A total of 12 studies (n=1,416) reported on the estimated blood loss outcome. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not differ from the CMLC procedure in terms of estimated blood loss volume [MD 1.29 (95% CI -0.85, 3.43), p=0.24, I2=86%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 5A).

21e01b71-4f2f-4337-b02d-f9675331f9f0_figure5.gif

Figure 5. Forrest plots of SILC vs. CMLC.

(A) Estimated blood loss. (B) Operation time. (C) Conversion to open surgery. (D) Hospital stay. SILC, single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy; CMLC, conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Operation time

A total of 34 studies (n=3,972) reported on the operation time outcome. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure significantly increased the length of operation time when compared with the CMLC procedure [MD 10.45 (95% CI 6.74, 14.17), p<0.00001, I2=97%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 5B).

Conversion to open cholecystectomy

A total of 27 studies (n=3,701) reported on the conversion to open cholecystectomy outcome. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not differ from the CMLC procedure in terms of conversion to open cholecystectomy rate [RR 1.07 (95% CI 0.53–2.19), p=0.84, I2=0%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 5C).

Length of hospital stay

A total of 26 studies (n=3,868) reported on the length of hospital stay outcome. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not differ from the CMLC procedure in terms of length of hospital stay [MD -0.11 (95% CI -0.26, 0.05), p=0.18, I2=90%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 5D).

VAS at four hours post-operation

Five studies (n=537) reported on VAS at the four-hour post-operative observation. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not offer benefits in VAS at four hours post-operation when compared with the CMLC procedure [MD -0.70 (95% CI -1.89, 0.49), p=0.25, I2=95%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 6A).

21e01b71-4f2f-4337-b02d-f9675331f9f0_figure6.gif

Figure 6. Forrest plots of SILC vs. CMLC.

VAS at (A) 4, (B) 6, (C) 8, (D) 12 and 24 hours post-operation. Cosmesis at (F) one month and (G) six months post-operation. (H) Days to return to work. SILC, single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy; CMLC, conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy; VAS, visual analog score.

VAS at six hours post-operation

Nine studies (n=1,204) reported on VAS at the six-hour post-operative observation. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure offered benefits in reducing the VAS at six hours post-operation when compared with the CMLC procedure [MD -0.58 (95% CI -1.11, -0.05), p=0.03, I2=93%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 6B).

VAS at eight hours post-operation

Five studies (n=573) reported on VAS at the eight-hour post-operative observation. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not offer benefits in VAS at eight hours post-operation when compared with the CMLC procedure [MD -0.50 (95% CI -1.17, 0.17), p=0.15, I2=95%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 6C).

VAS at 12 hours post-operation

Four studies (n=459) reported on VAS at the 12-hour post-operative observation. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not offer benefits in VAS at 12 hours post-operation when compared with the CMLC procedure [MD -0.86 (95% CI -2.02, 0.30), p=0.15, I2=95%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 6D).

VAS at 24 hours post-operation

A total of 29 studies (n=4,096) reported on VAS at the 24-hour post-operative observation. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not offer benefits in VAS at 24 hours post-operation when compared with the CMLC procedure [MD -0.14 (95% CI -0.42, 0.14), p=0.32, I2=94%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 6E).

Cosmesis at one month

Five studies (n=1,196) reported on the outcome of cosmesis one-month post-operation. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure offered benefits in increasing the cosmesis score one-month post-operation when compared with the CMLC procedure [SMD 2.12 (95% CI 1.10, 3.13), p<0.0001, I2=98%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 6F).

Cosmesis at six months

Three studies (n=446) reported on the outcome of cosmesis six months post-operation. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure offered benefits in increasing the cosmesis score at six months post-operation compared with the CMLC procedure [SMD 0.53 (95% CI 0.06, 0.99), p=0.03, I2=81%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 6G).

Days to return to work

Eight studies (n=771) reported on the days to return to work outcomes. Our pooled analysis showed that the SILC procedure did not differ from the CMLC procedure in terms of the number of days it took to return to work [MD 0.00 (95% CI -1.42, 1.43), p=1.00, I2=96%, random-effect modelling] ( Figure 6H).

Meta-regression

Meta-regression was performed to identify risk factors that influence the relationship between SILC procedure and statistically significant outcomes, consisting of the operation time, VAS at six hours post-operation, cosmesis score at one-month post-operation, and cosmesis score at six months post-operation. The results of the meta-regression analyses can be found as Extended data.63 Our meta-regression revealed that variability in those outcomes in patients who underwent the SILC procedure compared with the CMLC procedure was explained by known patient factors associated with predictors of abdominal surgery outcomes. From our meta-regression analysis, it was revealed that the length of operation time in patients who underwent the SILC procedure compared with the CMLC procedure was not significantly influenced by age (p=0.1133), sex (p=0.1936), BMI (p=0.4407), and ASA score (p=0.0557). In terms of VAS at six hours post-operation, a statistically significant association was present for BMI (beta coefficient: -0.1120; 95% CI: -0.2161, -0.0079; p=0.0350). However, other factors such as age (p=0.7800), sex (p=0.8660), and ASA score (p=0.0976) did not significantly affect the relationship between the SILC procedure compared with the CMLC procedure on the VAS at six hours post-operation. Meanwhile, in terms of cosmesis at one-month post-operation, a statistically significant association was also present for BMI (beta coefficient: -1.2241; 95% CI: -1.7181, -0.7302; p<0.0001). Our meta-regression also revealed that cosmesis at one-month post-operation was not significantly influenced by age (p=0.2866), and sex (p=0.9090). Lastly, for cosmesis at six months post-operation, the meta-regression analysis could not be performed as there were too many included studies in the analysis.

Publication bias

We used Funnel plot analysis for the assessment of publication bias in each outcome of interest. This analysis showed a relatively symmetrical inverted plot for all outcomes of interest in this study, indicating no publication bias.63 Furthermore, the Egger regression test results were also not statistically significant for all outcomes of interest, confirming the results from funnel plot analysis in which no sign of publication bias was found ( Table 2).

Table 2. Summary of publication bias analysis.

OutcomesFunnel-plot Egger’s test
Bile duct injurySymmetricalp=0.93632
Bile leakageSymmetricalp=0.42522
Gallbladder perforationSymmetricalp=0.28977
Wound infectionSymmetricalp=0.62726
Incisional herniaSymmetricalp=0.27176
Total intra-operative complicationsSymmetricalp=0.71848
Total post-operative complicationsSymmetricalp=0.14619
Estimated blood lossSymmetricalp=0.57188
Operation timeSymmetricalp=0.82622
Conversion to open cholecystectomySymmetricalp=0.54945
Length of hospital staySymmetricalp=0.38360
VAS at four hours post-operation Symmetricalp=0.83937
VAS at six hours post-operation Symmetricalp=0.59750
VAS at six hours post-operation Symmetricalp=0.28533
VAS at 12 hours post-operation Symmetricalp=0.18789
VAS at 24 hours post-operation Symmetricalp=0.47530
Cosmesis at one-month post-operation Symmetricalp=0.08651
Cosmesis at six months post-operation Symmetricalp=0.95798
Days to return to workSymmetricalp=0.95410

Discussion

The current ‘gold standard’ for cholecystectomy is laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This established technique has replaced the open method for routine cholecystectomy since the 1990s. Numerous studies have shown that traditional laparoscopic surgery (utilising three or four ports) is viable, secure, and advantageous for cholecystectomy.61 Technological advancements in surgery are progressing rapidly; hence, the single incision technique was established in 1997 to enhance post-operative pain management and cosmetic outcomes. Currently, SILC and CMLC are the available techniques for cholecystectomy, each with distinct considerations. Numerous RCTs have highlighted the advantages and disadvantages of both methods, however the conclusions remain disputed. The current ‘gold standard’ for cholecystectomy is laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This established technique has replaced the open method for routine cholecystectomy since the 1990s. Numerous studies have shown that traditional laparoscopic surgery (utilising three or four ports) is viable, secure, and advantageous for cholecystectomy. Sixty-one Technological advancements in surgery are progressing rapidly; hence, the single incision technique was established in 1997 to enhance post-operative pain management and cosmetic outcomes. Currently, SILC and CMLC are the available techniques for cholecystectomy, each with distinct considerations. Numerous RCTs have highlighted the advantages and disadvantages of both methods, however the conclusions remain disputed.1

A recent systematic evaluation by Lyu et al.12 indicated that SILC did not provide benefits over CMLC. The comprehensive findings of our study indicated that SILC enhanced post-operative pain management and aesthetic outcomes without an increased occurrence of perioperative problems, blood loss, conversion to open cholecystectomy, prolonged hospital stays, or delayed return to work in comparison to CMLC. Conversely, extended operational duration remains a significant concern for SILC.

Perioperative complications are a prevalent concern and continue to be contentious in every investigation. Evers et al.7 (2017) demonstrated that SILC was inferior than CMLC [RR 3.00 (95% CI 1.05–8.58)]. A further systematic review by Hall et al.11 further corroborated the inferiority of SILC in terms of overall problems. Our investigation indicated that biliary duct injuries, bile leakage, gallbladder perforation, wound infection, and incisional hernia exhibited no significant differences between SILC and CMLC. These assertions align with prior systematic reviews.9,13,62 We hypothesise that the improved understanding and development of single incision ports have reduced the likelihood of problems. Consequently, SILC is seen as equally viable as CMLC.

The remaining challenge for SILC is operational duration. Our research revealed an extended duration in SILC with a statistically significant p-value. None of the other systematic reviews demonstrated a shorter duration for SILC compared to CMLC.7,9,11,13 Numerous factors can impede the operational duration of SILC, including the specific approach employed, the type of instruments utilised, the viewpoint of the camera angle, and the intersection of instruments. These challenges can be surmounted by surgical expertise and the advancement of sophisticated equipment. Consequently, the duration of the operation may be identical in both methodologies.

Post-operative pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at four intervals: 4, 6, 8, 12, and 24 hours. Our study demonstrated a notable reduction in pain at the six-hour postoperative mark; however, the Visual Analogue Scale scores at 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours did not exhibit differences between the two groups. The tests conducted by Hall et al.11 and Arezzo et al.9 indicated that the VAS did not exhibit significant differences. Simultaneously, Lirici et al.62 demonstrated an enhancement in VAS following the first day; nevertheless, the pain scores on day one exhibited no changes between SILC and CMLC. Conversely, Evers et al.7 demonstrated an improved VAS outcome in the SILC group at 24 hours. Lyu et al.12 observed contrasting results, indicating that SILC was less effective in reducing post-operative pain at 6, 8, 12, and 24 hours. The variability of VAS was affected by numerous factors, including the type of anaesthetic agents, incision length, and psychological influences. Consequently, our analysis indicated a significant level of heterogeneity.

The aesthetic superiority of SILC was definitely evident. Our study indicated superior cosmetic results at both one month and six months post-operation. Numerous studies have corroborated our findings.7,9,11,62 The benefit of a solitary incision at the umbilicus results in a continuous scar, enhancing patient satisfaction. The definition of cosmesis differed across studies, resulting in significant variation. Our study revealed no differences between SILC and CMLC regarding blood loss, conversion to open surgery, length of hospital stay, and time to return to work. Supporting research also indicated comparable results, demonstrating that SILC did not improve the outcomes in those areas.7,9,11,62

This study is limited by the inclusion of only English-language papers, significant variability across all features, numerous randomised controlled trials with a high risk of bias, and varied definitions of all evaluated outcomes. We recommend equal weighting for pain and cosmesis scores to reduce heterogeneity, together with a more exact description of perioperative problems and operational duration to standardise outcome measurement. Therefore, extensive, double-blind, well planned randomised controlled trials are advised.

Conclusions

Technical evolution has made SILC and CMLC known alternatives. However, in a recent systematic review, it was established that SILC did not offer advantages over CMLC and also that the operational time of SILC still remains a serious issue. The VAS measured the post-operative pain and cosmetic results, which indicated the superiority of SILC. Thus, SILC may be an option for cholecystectomy depending on the surgeon’s experience.

Data availability

Underlying data

All data underlying the results are available as part of the article and no additional source data are required.

Extended data

Zenodo: Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.6416832.63

This project contains the following extended data:

  • - ROB2_IRPG_beta_v9_Sysrev.xlsm (dataset)

  • - Supplementary Figure 1.pdf

  • - Supplementary Figure 2.pdf

  • - Supplementary Figure 3.pdf

  • - Supplementary Figure 4.pdf

  • - Supplementary Table 1.docx

  • - Search Strategy.docx

Reporting guidelines

Zenodo: PRISMA checklist for ‘Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials.’ https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.6416832.63

Data are available under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license (CC-BY 4.0).

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Rudiman R, Hanafi RV and Wijaya A. Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials [version 2; peer review: 1 approved, 2 approved with reservations]. F1000Research 2024, 11:754 (https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.122102.2)
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Approved with reservations A number of small changes, sometimes more significant revisions are required to address specific details and improve the papers academic merit.
Not approvedFundamental flaws in the paper seriously undermine the findings and conclusions
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Reviewer Report 18 Dec 2024
Islam Korayem, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Alexandria Governorate, Egypt 
Approved with Reservations
VIEWS 4
Thank you for giving me the chance to review this manuscript. Comparing different approached of laparoscopic cholecystectomy remains to be a hot topic with abundant contributions and debates.

Overall, the manuscript is well written in a proper ... Continue reading
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Korayem I. Reviewer Report For: Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials [version 2; peer review: 1 approved, 2 approved with reservations]. F1000Research 2024, 11:754 (https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.174548.r345779)
NOTE: it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in all citations of this article.
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Reviewer Report 21 Nov 2024
Yunushan Furkan Aydoğdu, Department of General Surgery, Bandırma Training and Research Hospital, Balıkesir, Turkey 
Approved with Reservations
VIEWS 7
Dear Author
In general, the requested revisions were made, but the article suggestions in the first revision was ... Continue reading
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Aydoğdu YF. Reviewer Report For: Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials [version 2; peer review: 1 approved, 2 approved with reservations]. F1000Research 2024, 11:754 (https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.174548.r341301)
NOTE: it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in all citations of this article.
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Reviewer Report 06 Nov 2024
Yunushan Furkan Aydoğdu, Department of General Surgery, Bandırma Training and Research Hospital, Balıkesir, Turkey 
Approved with Reservations
VIEWS 7
General Evaluation
Subject and Objective: The study focused on the comparison of SILC and CMLC techniques. The purpose of the research is clearly defined and targets existing gaps in the literature. This draws the reader's attention.

... Continue reading
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Aydoğdu YF. Reviewer Report For: Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials [version 2; peer review: 1 approved, 2 approved with reservations]. F1000Research 2024, 11:754 (https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.134047.r335341)
NOTE: it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in all citations of this article.
  • Author Response 08 Nov 2024
    Reno Rudiman, Division of Digestive Surgery, Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, 40161, Indonesia
    08 Nov 2024
    Author Response
    Dear Dr. Yunushan Furkan Aydoğdu,

    Thank you for your insightful recommendations on our manuscript. Therefore, we will proceed to revise based on the details you have provided.

    Best regards
    ... Continue reading
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  • Author Response 08 Nov 2024
    Reno Rudiman, Division of Digestive Surgery, Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, 40161, Indonesia
    08 Nov 2024
    Author Response
    Dear Dr. Yunushan Furkan Aydoğdu,

    Thank you for your insightful recommendations on our manuscript. Therefore, we will proceed to revise based on the details you have provided.

    Best regards
    ... Continue reading
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Reviewer Report 07 Feb 2024
Vicky Sumarki Budipramana, Department of Surgery, Premier Surabaya Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia;  Airlangga University, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia 
Andro Pramana Witarto, Airlangga University, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia 
Approved
VIEWS 9
  • In Fig. 1 regarding PRISMA flowchart, section “Reports excluded: Exclusion criteria (n = 10)” were not clearly detailed into some points and the number of the excluded studies in each of the exclusion criteria. It will be
... Continue reading
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Budipramana VS and Pramana Witarto A. Reviewer Report For: Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials [version 2; peer review: 1 approved, 2 approved with reservations]. F1000Research 2024, 11:754 (https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.134047.r155047)
NOTE: it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in all citations of this article.

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Alongside their report, reviewers assign a status to the article:
Approved - the paper is scientifically sound in its current form and only minor, if any, improvements are suggested
Approved with reservations - A number of small changes, sometimes more significant revisions are required to address specific details and improve the papers academic merit.
Not approved - fundamental flaws in the paper seriously undermine the findings and conclusions
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