English

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: After the introduction of laparoscopic cholecystectomy it has become the procedure of choice for the removal of gall bladder. The advantages of laparoscopic cholecystectomy cited were the avoidance of large incision, shortened hospital stay and earlier return to work. AIM: This study was conducted in an effort to determine if these proposed advantages could be achieved in practice and also to compare duration of surgery, complications, postoperative recovery, hospital stay and patient satisfaction in both groups. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a prospective clinical study done in our rural hospital consisting of 60 patients undergoing cholecystectomy randomized in two groups - 30 patients in group A (Laparoscopic cholecystectomy) and 30 patients in group B (Open cholecystectomy) is undertaken to compare efficacy, safety and patient satisfaction between these two procedures. The statistical analysis used was Chi-square test, Fischer Exact test and student't' test wherever applicable. RESULTS: Females were the main sufferers of gallbladder disease in our study. The duration of surgery was almost equal in both groups in our study. Though overall complications were more in the open group there was one case of bile duct injury in the laparoscopic group and one case was converted to open due to major bleeding. The postoperative pain was less and patients tolerated orally earlier when compared to open group. The patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were discharged earlier and resumed their normal work earlier when compared to open cholecystectomy group. CONCLUSION: The study supports the view that laparoscopic cholecystectomy is safer and efficacious and offers definitive advantages over open cholecystectomy and should be the available option for all patients requiring elective cholecystectomy.