Translumenal single-incision laparoscopy radical gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection for early gastric cancer--primary experience with less invasive surgery in China.

Background: In this article we report our initial clinical experience about umbilical single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) radical gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection for early gastric cancer with conventional laparoscopic instruments.

Methods: Preliminary experiences with umbilical SILS radical gastrectomy in 4 patients with early gastric cancer were described.

Results: Umbilical SILS radical gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection was performed successfully with conventional laparoscopic instruments in these 4 patients. Average operative time was 280 minutes, and average blood loss was 162 mL. No intraoperative or postoperative complications, such as secondary hemorrhage, anastomotic leakage, or obstruction, were recorded. The patients recovered fully, and the single umbilical scar was well healed.

Conclusions: Our initial experience showed that transumbilical SILS radical gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection for early gastric cancer is feasible and safe when performed by experienced laparoscopic surgeons.