R. Scott Kinkade, M.D., general surgeon on the Medical Staff at Verde Valley Medical Center, recently performed a single-incision laparoscopic gallbladder removal. Normally, surgeons performing laparoscopic gallbladder removal make at least three incisions. This is believed to be the first single-incision gallbladder removal performed in the region and state.

Dr. Kinkade performed the procedure through a single skin incision located within the patient’s umbilicus, commonly known as the belly button. Several advanced surgical instruments enabled maneuverability and improved access to the surgical site. Single-incision laparoscopic surgical procedures demonstrate that fewer incisions are possible, and represent a great step toward the ultimate goal of no incisions, which will improve patient outcomes.

“The biggest advantage to the patient is that essentially there are no scars,” said Dr. Kinkade. “It’s a single incision made through the umbilicus, and once that heals, there are no scars from it. Not only is there less scarring, but less pain because there is only one small incision as compared to three or four.”

Laparoscopic procedures are minimally invasive, meaning there is less postoperative pain, a shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery times, which allow patients a more rapid return to normal activity and quality of life.