OBJECTIVETo explore the feasibility of single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy using a three-dimensional (3D) laparoscopic system.

METHODSTwo patients with benign gallbladder disease with a history of recurrent abdominal pain were selected to undergo the surgery. Gallstones were diagnosed by B ultrasound examination. All the operations were performed through the umbilical incision with the 3D laparoscopic system.

RESULTSThe 2 operations were completed successfully with a operative time of 35 min and 50 min. Both of the patients were ambulatory 8 h after the surgery, began to have a normal diet 1 day after operation, and were discharged 2 days postoperatively without any clinical symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS3D single-incision laparoscopic operation can well reveal the tissue anatomy in the operative field especially for some important structures such as the Calot's triangle with an improved safety compared to conventional laparoscopic operations.