Day case laparoscopic cholecystectomy is feasible.
BACKGROUND
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the operation of choice for cholelithiasis.


OBJECTIVE
The aims of our study were to assess the feasibility of day case laparoscopic cholecystectomy (DCLC) in selected patients.


METHODS
DCLC was introduced in this unit in July 1999. The first 50 patients were prospectively evaluated up to February 2001.


RESULTS
All patients were under 55 years of age with an ASA grade of I (n = 48) or II (n = 2). The mean age was 41.1 years (range 20-55 years) and the male:female ratio was 1:6. All patients had a standard anaesthetic protocol. Patients were discharged 10 to 12 hours postoperatively with a pro forma, which was reviewed at one week in the clinic. The conversion rate was 2%. Three required overnight admission due to excessive nausea, hypertension and for an unforeseen psychosocial problem. Ninety per cent of patients were suitable for same day discharge. No patient required subsequent readmission.


CONCLUSIONS
DCLC is feasible and safe in carefully selected patients and has the advantages of convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Kiely
J M
JM
Department of Surgery, Limerick Regional Hospital, Limerick, Ireland.
Brannigan
A E
AE
Foley
E
E
Cheema
S
S
O'Brien
W
W
Delaney
P V
PV
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000556:Ambulatory Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D017081:Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic / Q000379:methods / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011446:Prospective Studies