Transumbilical laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a novel technique.

Objective: To describe a novel technique for performing laparoscopic cholecystectomies using no proprietary or specially designed equipment, while still minimizing the incision and leaving a nearly invisible scar.

Design: Retrospective review.

Setting: Community teaching hospital.

Patients: Twelve patients having uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Main Outcome Measures: Number and appearance of postoperative scars.

Results: Twelve attempts to perform the procedure with our new technique were completed successfully. None of the patients required conversion to the standard technique, which requires additional ports. All of the patients were pleased with their results. No identifiable mark was visible in the right upper quadrant of any of the patients; at the 2-week follow-up, the umbilical incisions were nearly invisible, even to the patients.

Conclusion: This novel technique can be performed safely and effectively while minimizing the number and extent of incisions.