Laparoscopic cholecystectomy as day-surgery procedure: Current indications and patients' selection

Aim of the study To review the current indications, to establish predictive factors of success and the safety of LC as a day-surgery procedure. Methods Randomized clinical trials were searched on PubMed between January 2000 and June 2008 using “laparoscopic cholecystectomy”, “day-surgery” as keywords. Results A total of 20 trials was identified and analyzed. The indications for LC in day-surgery unit were symptomatic and chronic cholelitiasis without evidence of common bile duct stones; acute cholecystitis and pancreatitis cases were excluded. The trials considered as inclusion criteria: ASA score, BMI, social aspect and the preoperative workout included: abdominal US, liver function tests and routine preoperative tests, while the results considered the reasons for hospital stays and for readmission and measured patient satisfaction; some trials included analyze of costs of LC as day-surgery procedure the role of the surgeon's experience. Discussion The present study confirms that day-surgery LC is safe and feasibility in selected patients; serious complications are rare and most frequently prolonged hospital stay and the readmission are connected with minor and more easily controlled complications or social reasons. Outpatient surgery requires careful planning and preparation in order to reach acceptable patients' satisfaction: preoperative workout is extremely imports allowing to reduce errors selection. Considering surgical training, it has been demonstrated that in the centres in which the trainees are involved in day-surgery LC there not significant difference in terms of number of complications, patient outcomes, prolonged stay and readmission. The adequate control of pain, nausea or vomiting is essential component in day-case LC service and it is possible at home after LC. Conclusion Day-case laparoscopic cholecystectomy is feasible with an acceptable discharge rate and level of patient satisfaction. The success depends on appropriate patient selection and on well-trained staff and skilful operative technique together with safe anaesthesia.