Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is removal of the gallbladder through small incisions using a camera and surgical instruments.
When is it considered?
Recurrent biliary colic, acute cholecystitis and selected gallstone-related complications are common reasons for surgical assessment. Routine surgery is usually not required for asymptomatic stones.
Preoperative planning
Ultrasound, laboratory tests and the risk of common bile duct stones are assessed. MRCP, EUS or ERCP may be required when duct stones are suspected.
General principle of the operation
The cystic duct and artery are identified and controlled, and the gallbladder is separated from the liver bed and removed. Conversion to open surgery may be required for safety.
General postoperative course
Many patients can be managed with a short hospital stay. Diet and return to activity are advanced according to individual recovery.
Possible risks and complications
Potential risks include bleeding, infection, bile leakage, bile duct injury, injury to adjacent organs and anesthetic complications.
Selected academic work
These publications demonstrate academic work related to the topic; they are not the sole source of current treatment standards.
- PUB-2024-03 — 2024 — The relationship between gastrointestinal complaints and the use of pancreatin-derivated medications after cholecystectomy — https://doi.org/10.5472/marumj.1481286
