Abstract
Single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) has emerged as an evolution in minimally invasive surgical techniques, using a single-entry point, typically at the umbilicus, to perform various surgical procedures. The aim of this review is to expand upon prior reviews from over five years ago and provide a more comprehensive, up-to-date evaluation of SILS in abdominal surgery. By assessing the roles, challenges, and recent advances of SILS we hope to identify its value amongst other current surgical approaches and also areas for further development in the field. SILS platforms have been used across multiple surgical disciplines, including abdominal wall, colorectal, metabolic and bariatric, gynecologic, urologic, hepatobiliary, foregut, endocrine, and pediatric specialties. A SILS approach is safe and effective in select patient populations and offers benefits, such as improved cosmesis and reduced postoperative pain. However, SILS does present technical challenges, including reduced triangulation and increased instrument crowding, leading to a steeper learning curve with longer operative times. The advent of new technologies, such as specialized access devices, curved and articulating instruments, and single-port robotic platforms, is helping to address some of these limitations. Continued innovation and further high-quality research are necessary to better define the long-term benefits and potential of SILS in various surgical disciplines.