Single glowing surgical incision transforming into a blooming flower, symbolizing healing and improved outcomes in single-incision laparoscopy for endometrial cancer.

Single Incision Laparoscopy: A Minimally Invasive Revolution in Endometrial Cancer Treatment

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Mira Elwood in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Discover how single incision laparoscopy, combined with vaginal hysterectomy, offers a less invasive approach for treating endometrial cancer, reducing recovery time and improving cosmetic outcomes."


Laparoscopic surgery has transformed the treatment of many abdominal and pelvic diseases in recent years. Its advantages over traditional open surgery are undeniable: better cosmetic results, less post-operative pain, and a quicker return to normal life. As surgical instruments advance, single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SIL) has emerged, promising to further minimize invasiveness by using just one incision, hidden in the umbilicus.

SIL aims to reduce the trauma associated with conventional laparoscopy, which typically involves multiple incisions. By promoting faster recovery, reducing hospital stays, and improving cosmetic results, SIL represents a significant step forward in minimally invasive techniques.

Endometrial cancer, the most common gynecologic malignancy, often requires surgical staging. While a vaginal approach is favored for benign conditions, it may not suffice for endometrial cancer due to the need for thorough abdominal surveys and lymphadenectomy. This article explores how SIL, combined with vaginal hysterectomy, can offer a less invasive yet effective solution, particularly for patients where traditional surgery poses higher risks.

What is Single Incision Laparoscopy and How Does it Work?

Single glowing surgical incision transforming into a blooming flower, symbolizing healing and improved outcomes in single-incision laparoscopy for endometrial cancer.

Single-incision laparoscopy (SIL) is a minimally invasive surgical technique that allows surgeons to perform procedures through a single entry point, usually the patient’s umbilicus (belly button). This approach contrasts with traditional laparoscopy, which requires multiple incisions. By using just one incision, SIL aims to reduce post-operative pain, scarring, and recovery time.

In a case study published in Gynecology & Obstetrics, doctors detailed how they used SIL combined with vaginal hysterectomy to treat endometrial cancer in an obese patient. Here's a breakdown of the procedure:

  • Patient Presentation: A 35-year-old obese woman (BMI = 42) presented with persistent bleeding and pelvic pain. An endometrial biopsy confirmed endometrial adenocarcinoma type I.
  • Diagnosis: Imaging revealed increased endometrial thickness and a uterine volume of 221.6 cc. MRI showed potential infiltration into the myometrium (uterine muscle) and bilateral inguinal lymphadenomegaly (enlarged lymph nodes).
  • SIL Procedure: A SITRACC device (a specialized port for single-incision access) was inserted through a 4 cm longitudinal incision in the umbilicus. The ovaries and round ligaments were released.
  • Vaginal Hysterectomy: Following SIL, a vaginal hysterectomy (removal of the uterus through the vagina) and bilateral oophorectomy (removal of both ovaries) were performed.
  • Post-Operative Results: The patient was discharged after 24 hours. Follow-up visits showed no complications, and the scar was small and cosmetic. Histological results confirmed endometrial carcinoma type 1 with 70% invasion of the myometrium wall. The patient was then referred for adjuvant radiotherapy treatment.
The procedure leverages the benefits of both SIL and vaginal hysterectomy. SIL allows for initial exploration and manipulation, while the vaginal approach minimizes abdominal incisions. This combination can be particularly advantageous for obese patients, where traditional laparotomy (open surgery) or multi-incision laparoscopy might pose increased risks.

Why Single Incision Laparoscopy Matters

Single-incision laparoscopy offers a promising approach to endometrial cancer treatment, especially for patients who may benefit from a minimally invasive option. As techniques and technologies continue to advance, SIL has the potential to become an increasingly important tool in gynecologic surgery, offering improved outcomes and quality of life for patients facing endometrial cancer.

About this Article -

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Everything You Need To Know

1

What is Single Incision Laparoscopy (SIL) and how does it differ from traditional laparoscopy?

Single Incision Laparoscopy (SIL) is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a single incision, typically in the umbilicus (belly button), to perform procedures. This contrasts with traditional laparoscopy, which requires multiple incisions for accessing the abdominal or pelvic cavity. SIL aims to reduce post-operative pain, scarring, and recovery time compared to both traditional laparoscopy and open surgery.

2

How does Single Incision Laparoscopy combined with Vaginal Hysterectomy work in the treatment of Endometrial Cancer?

The approach combines Single Incision Laparoscopy (SIL) with vaginal hysterectomy. Initially, SIL is used for exploration and manipulation within the abdomen, and to perform procedures like bilateral oophorectomy (removal of both ovaries). Then, a vaginal hysterectomy (removal of the uterus through the vagina) is performed. This method leverages the benefits of both techniques, offering a less invasive solution, especially for patients with Endometrial Cancer who may not be ideal candidates for traditional laparotomy (open surgery).

3

What are the advantages of using Single Incision Laparoscopy (SIL) for treating Endometrial Cancer, especially in obese patients?

SIL offers several advantages, including better cosmetic results due to a single, hidden incision, less post-operative pain, and a quicker return to normal life compared to traditional open surgery or multi-incision laparoscopy. This approach can be particularly beneficial for obese patients, as it minimizes the risks associated with larger incisions and can lead to improved outcomes. SIL also reduces the overall trauma of the procedure, contributing to faster recovery and shorter hospital stays.

4

Describe a real-world example of Single Incision Laparoscopy and Vaginal Hysterectomy.

A 35-year-old obese patient (BMI=42) experiencing bleeding and pelvic pain was diagnosed with Endometrial Adenocarcinoma. An SIL procedure was performed using a SITRACC device through the umbilicus. The ovaries and round ligaments were released. Subsequently, a vaginal hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy were performed. The patient was discharged within 24 hours and showed no complications during follow-up. Histological results confirmed the diagnosis, and the patient underwent adjuvant radiotherapy treatment.

5

Why is Single Incision Laparoscopy (SIL) considered a significant advancement in the treatment of Endometrial Cancer and its future potential?

SIL represents a significant step forward because it offers a less invasive approach to treating Endometrial Cancer, leading to improved cosmetic results, reduced pain, and faster recovery times. Its potential is especially promising for obese patients, who may face increased risks with traditional surgical methods. As techniques and technologies improve, SIL is poised to become an increasingly important tool in gynecologic surgery, enhancing patient outcomes and overall quality of life. The minimally invasive nature of SIL can also lead to reduced healthcare costs and improved patient satisfaction.

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