Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy in acute cholecystitis: Preferable option

Abstract

Background: Approximately 80% of the cholecystectomies are performed laparoscopically. Traditionally, acute cholecystitis is treated conservatively followed by delayed cholecystectomy 6-8 weeks after the acute attack. Various studies have addressed the optimal timing of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in patients with acute cholecystitis. The aim of this study was to compare early and delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in 60 patients presenting with acute cholecystitis to compare early and delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy, focussing on intra-operative and postoperative parameters like duration of surgery, surgical difficulties and complications, analgesic requirement, duration of postoperative hospital stay and wound related complications.Results: Longer operation times were required in the early group. Postoperative pain scores and analgesic requirements were almost similar in two groups. The cost of treatment in the delayed group was significantly higher.Conclusion: Though early laparoscopic cholecystectomy required longer operative times, it resulted in reduced the cost of treatment than delayed LC. Conclusion: Though early laparoscopic cholecystectomy required longer operative times, it resulted in reduced the cost of treatment than delayed LC.