The field of bariatric surgery is experiencing a revolutionary transformation with the introduction of single port robotic surgery using the Da Vinci SP (Single Port) system. Op. Dr. Murat Üstün, certified in robotic surgery by the University of Paris, is bringing this cutting-edge technology to Liv Vadi Hospital in Istanbul, offering patients the most advanced minimally invasive surgical experience available in Turkey.

What Is Single Port Robotic Surgery?

Single port robotic surgery represents the next evolution in minimally invasive surgery. Unlike conventional laparoscopic surgery (which requires 4-6 small incisions) or standard multiport robotic surgery (which uses 3-4 ports), single port robotic surgery achieves the same — or superior — surgical outcomes through a single 2.5 cm incision, typically placed in the umbilicus (belly button).

The Da Vinci SP system features a unique cannula design that houses a 3D HD camera and three fully wristed instruments, all entering the body through one access point. Each instrument has independent elbow-like articulation, providing the surgeon with exceptional reach and dexterity within the surgical field.

Advantages Over Traditional Laparoscopy and Multiport Robotic Surgery

Single port robotic surgery offers several significant advantages over existing approaches:

• Minimal scarring: A single incision hidden in the belly button leaves virtually no visible scar
• Reduced postoperative pain: Fewer abdominal wall penetrations mean less tissue trauma and pain
• Faster recovery: Most patients return to normal activities 3-5 days sooner than with conventional approaches
• Lower infection risk: Fewer incision sites reduce the risk of wound complications
• Reduced hernia risk: Fewer and smaller fascial defects lower the long-term risk of incisional hernias
• Enhanced precision: The robotic platform provides 3D visualization and tremor filtration for superior surgical accuracy

Op. Dr. Murat Üstün: Paris University Robotic Surgery Certification and 21 Years of Experience

Op. Dr. Murat Üstün combines 21+ years of surgical experience and over 8,000 successful operations with advanced training in robotic surgery from the University of Paris. His expertise spans the full spectrum of bariatric and metabolic procedures, making him uniquely qualified to leverage the capabilities of the Da Vinci SP system for complex cases.

Why Is Single Port Robotic Bariatric Surgery Important?

Clinical Advantages

• Superior visualization: The 3D endoscope provides unparalleled depth perception in the surgical field
• Wristed instruments: 360-degree articulation surpasses human wrist capabilities
• Tremor filtration: The robotic system eliminates the surgeon's natural hand tremor
• Ergonomic operation: The surgeon operates from a comfortable console, reducing fatigue during long procedures
• Magnification: Up to 10x magnification allows precise tissue identification

Specific Benefits for Obesity Patients

• Thicker abdominal wall in obese patients makes traditional multiport surgery more challenging — single port reduces wall trauma
• Better cosmetic outcomes improve postoperative body image and satisfaction
• Reduced postoperative pain allows faster mobilization, which is critical for preventing DVT in bariatric patients
• Lower wound complication rates in a patient population already at higher risk

Which Bariatric Procedures Can Be Performed with Single Port Robotic Surgery?

1. Sleeve Gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve)

The most commonly performed bariatric procedure worldwide is ideally suited for single port robotic approach. The linear stapling along the greater curvature of the stomach is performed with enhanced precision through the articulating instruments.

2. Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

This technically demanding procedure benefits enormously from the robotic platform's dexterity, particularly during the creation of the gastrojejunal and jejunojejunal anastomoses.

3. Single Anastomosis Procedures (SADI-S, Mini Gastric Bypass)

These procedures, which involve a single intestinal connection, are well-suited for the single port approach due to the reduced complexity of the anastomosis.

4. Revision Surgery

Revision bariatric procedures (converting a previous surgery or correcting complications) are among the most challenging cases. The robotic platform's precision is particularly valuable when navigating scar tissue and altered anatomy.

5. General Surgery Procedures

Beyond bariatric surgery, the Da Vinci SP system can be used for cholecystectomy, hernia repair, appendectomy, and other general surgery procedures.

How Does the Da Vinci SP Single Port System Work? Technical Details

The Da Vinci SP system features a unique articulating instrument platform where all three instruments and the camera pass through a single 25mm cannula. Key technical specifications include:

• Three 6mm fully wristed instruments with EndoWrist technology
• A fully articulating 3D HD endoscope
• Independent instrument articulation with 7 degrees of freedom
• Intuitive master-slave control system
• Integrated fluorescence imaging (Firefly) for tissue perfusion assessment

Scientific Evidence: Robotic Bariatric Surgery Outcomes

Published studies demonstrate the safety and efficacy of single port robotic bariatric surgery:

• Complication rates comparable to or lower than conventional laparoscopic approaches
• Shorter hospital stays (average 1.5-2 days vs. 2-3 days)
• Reduced narcotic requirements postoperatively
• Higher patient satisfaction scores, particularly regarding cosmetic outcomes
• Equivalent weight loss and metabolic outcomes at 1 and 2 years

Patient Selection: Who Is a Candidate for Single Port Robotic Surgery?

Suitable Candidates

• Patients meeting standard bariatric surgery criteria (BMI ≥ 35 with comorbidities or BMI ≥ 40)
• Patients seeking minimal scarring and faster recovery
• Revision surgery patients requiring complex reoperative procedures
• Patients with BMI up to 55-60

Situations Requiring Consideration

• Super-morbid obesity (BMI > 60) may require case-by-case evaluation
• Multiple previous abdominal surgeries with extensive adhesions
• Certain anatomical variations that may require additional port placement

The Single Port Robotic Surgery Era Begins at Liv Vadi Hospital

Liv Vadi Hospital is among the pioneering centers in Turkey to offer single port robotic bariatric surgery with the Da Vinci SP system. The hospital's state-of-the-art operating rooms and dedicated bariatric care team, combined with Op. Dr. Murat Üstün's expertise, provide patients with a world-class surgical experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Single Port Robotic Surgery

Is single port robotic surgery safe?

Yes. Published studies demonstrate that single port robotic surgery has complication rates comparable to or lower than conventional approaches. The robotic platform's precision and visualization capabilities may actually enhance safety.

Will there be a visible scar after surgery?

The single incision is placed within the umbilicus (belly button), making it virtually invisible once healed. Most patients report that the scar is undetectable within 6-12 months.

How long is the recovery period?

Most patients return to light daily activities within 3-5 days and to full activity within 2-3 weeks. This is typically 1-2 weeks faster than conventional laparoscopic surgery.

Can sleeve gastrectomy be performed with single port?

Yes. Sleeve gastrectomy is one of the most commonly performed procedures using the Da Vinci SP system. The results are excellent with enhanced precision and cosmetic outcomes.

Is this technology available in Turkey?

Yes. Op. Dr. Murat Üstün is performing single port robotic bariatric surgery at Liv Vadi Hospital in Istanbul with the Da Vinci SP system.

Appointment and Information

To learn more about single port robotic bariatric surgery or to schedule a free initial consultation with Op. Dr. Murat Üstün, contact us via WhatsApp at +90 532 413 1143 or call directly. International patients are welcome, and English-language support is available throughout the entire process.