Laparoendoscopic Single-Site Surgery (LESS) Simulation.

The development of laparoendoscopic single‐site surgery ( hereafter ‘LESS’) has led to a significant reduction of the number and size of incisions, thus providing aesthetic and physiological benefits for patients. Postoperative outcomes, recovery times, length of hospital stay, and related costs have all been impacted positively since its introduction.

LESS possesses all of the constraints of conventional laparoscopic surgery with regards to manoeuvrability, restricted degrees of freedom and reduced operative window but also adds new technical challenges and yet another layer of complexity. Operating through a single port reduces the advantage of port triangulation, potentially leading to a lack of co-ordination, instrument collision, forced movements, further narrowing of the operative field, and possible pneumoperitoneum leakage.

Therefore, the use of LESS approach requires more extensive training to avoid complications and to reduce the chances of surgeon fatigue, strain and injury. At JDSG, we are developing an exclusive LESS workshop for junior doctors focusing on intracorporeal suturing at awkward angles to tissues and an interactive session on Laparoscopic ergonomics. Join our newsletter for future updates on courses, workshops and lectures.