Abstract

MBATHA, S Z  and  ANDERSON, F. Outcomes in laparoscopic cholecystectomy in a resource constrained environment. S. Afr. j. surg. [online]. 2016, vol.54, n.3, pp.8-12. ISSN 2078-5151.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is a common surgical procedure performed for symptomatic gallstones. There is a trend towards early cholecystectomy for patients with acute cholecystitis who present timeously. Local inflammation has been identified as a risk factor for bile duct injuries. This study sought to assess the outcomes of LC in patients managed within a resource constrained environment where late presentation is common. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed from January 2010 to June 2011. The mode of presentation, co-morbidities, timing of cholecystectomy and complications were analysed. RESULTS: One hundred and sixty seven patients were evaluated. The median age was 43 years with range (17-78) years and 93% were female and 7% male. There were 44%, 23%, 20% and 13% who presented with biliary colic, acute pancreatitis, acute cholecystitis and obstructive jaundice respectively. Nine (5.4%) patients required conversion to an open cholecystectomy. Complications occurred in 16.2% and bile duct injuries and bile leaks in 1.2% and 1.8% respectively. One patient died. CONCLUSIONS: Most patients had a delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy. There was no difference in outcomes for the different presentations and the complications are similar to other reports.

Keywords : laparoscopic; cholecystectomy; complications.

        · text in English     · English ( pdf )