Single-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus standard multiport laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a case-control study comparing the long-term quality of life and body image.

Purpose: To study the postoperative quality of life and body image of patients who underwent either single-port cholecystectomy (SPC) or standard multiport laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SMLC) in a long-term assessment.

Methods: Fifty patients who underwent SPC using the reusable X-Cone™ Laparoscopic Device were compared with a matched group (age, sex, body mass index) of 50 patients after SMLC. The health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and body image at 17 months postoperatively (median, range 9-23) was analysed by means of the Short-Form 12 Health Survey and the Body Image Questionnaire, respectively.

Results: Both patient groups had comparable baseline characteristics, clinical courses, and postoperative complication rates. SPC patients were significantly more satisfied with the cosmetic result of their scar at 17 months postoperatively, in comparison to SMLC patients (cosmetic scale: 22.6 ± 2.8 vs. 19.5 ± 3.7, p < 0.001). However, the HRQOL did not differ between the SPC and SMLC patients (physical component scale: 50.0 ± 8.9 vs. 48.8 ± 9.4, p = 0.48; mental component scale: 53.8 ± 6.5 vs. 51.3 ± 8.5, p = 0.10).

Conclusion: Although the overall postoperative HRQOL was comparable, this study suggests that the cosmetic result of SPC after complete wound healing is superior to the standard multiport laparoscopic procedure.