Laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis: clinical analysis of 216 cases

Objective To investigate the clinical experience of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) for acute cholecystitis. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical records of 216 patients with acute cholecystitis who underwent LC in Qingpu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University from January 2010 to January 2013. LC was performed under intubation general anaesthesia, with three holes conventionally and four holes if necessary. After operation, the drainage tube was placed for 1- 3 d, and antibiotics were administered for 3-5 d. The time of operation, length of postoperative hospital stay, and incidence of postoperative complications were determined. All patients were followed up for at least 0. 5 year after operation. Results LC was successfully performed in 188 (87. 0%) of all patients; 28 (13. 0%) of all patients were converted to open surgery. The mean time of operation was 62. 00 ± 11. 27 min; the mean length of hospital stay was 4. 60± 2. 16 d; the incidence of postoperative complications was 2. 3% (5 /216) . All patients were cured and discharged. During follow- up, no patients developed other complications and all recovered well. Conclusion LC is safe and feasible in the treatment of acute cholecystitis. Correct manipulation of the Calot's triangle and proper abdominal drainage are the key to successful operation.