Application of Side-Port Smoke Evacuation Device in Laparoendoscopic Single-Site Surgery: A Prospective Comparative Study

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of a side-port smoke evacuation device during laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) total laparoscopic hysterectomy with bilateral salpingectomy. Methods: A total of 24 female patients undergoing LESS total laparoscopic hysterectomy with bilateral salpingectomy from July 2023 to September 2024 were enrolled and randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 12) or control group (n = 12). The experimental group used a custom-designed side-port smoke evacuation device, while the control group used the conventional built-in smoke channel of the single-port platform. Intraoperative metrics such as total operation time, cumulative surgical pause time, blood loss, and postoperative anal exhaust time were recorded. Postoperative questionnaires were used to evaluate surgical field clarity by the primary surgeon and assistant. Results: No significant differences were observed in age, blood loss, or postoperative exhaust time between the two groups (P > 0.05). However, the experimental group had significantly shorter operation time (70.75 ± 19.32 min vs. 98.16 ± 31.16 min, P = 0.015) and pause time (17.33 ± 12.75 sec vs. 37 ± 16.32 sec, P = 0.015). Subjective clarity scores from both surgeon and assistant were significantly higher in the experimental group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The side-port smoke evacuation device enhances surgical visibility during LESS procedures, reduces intraoperative pauses, and contributes to safer, more efficient operations. It also reduces surgical smoke exposure, thereby protecting healthcare staff and improving occupational safety.