Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Research Articles

BN SO04 - The value of routine histopathology analysis of gallbladder specimens after elective and emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Abstract Background Gallbladder cancer is not among the 20 most common cancers in the UK, accounting for less than 1% of all new cancer cases with a peak rate at 85-89 years of age. There is a dominant routine conception among surgeons to send the gallbladder specimen for histopathology even if there is no gross features that raise suspicion for neoplasm. In this study, we are trying to get evidence of the value of routine histopathology analysis of gallbladder specimens after elective and emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgeries in Warwick hospital. Method The record of all the patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy ( elective, expiated and emergency ) in Warwick hospital in the period between 01/07/2023 – 30/01/2024 ( 7 months) were collected, reviewed and underwent data analysis Results A total of 171 specimens were sent for histo-pathology analysis. Only one patient had low grade dysplasia with no malignant features. No routine follow-up decided for him/her after upper GIT MDT discussion. The incidence rate was 0% of neoplasm and 0.6% of low-grade dysplasia. Conclusion No specimen in the study had suspicious gross features of malignancy. Using a selective system is more logical and economic than the routine sending for histopathology after elective and emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomy if there are no suspicious features in the specimen.

HPB SO29 - Outcomes of Percutaneous Image-Guided and Laparoscopic Cholecystostomies in High-Risk Patients With Acute Calculus Cholecystitis: A Five-Year District General Hospital Experience

Abstract Background Acute cholecystitis (AC), inflammation of the gall bladder, is one of the most common emergency surgical presentations. In the UK, approximately 15% of the population is estimated to have gallstones, and approximately 20% of them can develop AC. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is considered the definitive management of AC. However, cholecystectomy carries a very high risk of morbidity and mortality in high-risk frail patients with multiple comorbidities who are deemed unfit for surgery. Percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC), both image-guided and laparoscopic, is generally acknowledged as an interim treatment measure before definitive management, which is the LC. Method This retrospective study from the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary in Wigan, UK, analyzed medical records of patients who underwent percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) between January 2017 and December 2022. Excluded were patients with prior hepato-pancreato-biliary malignancy, those who had open cholecystostomy, or those with abdominal ascites. Data collected included age, gender, American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grades, procedure success rates (temporary or definitive), hospital stay duration, 30-day and 1-year mortality rates, timing of the procedure, and long-term complications, particularly those related to cholecystostomy tube dislodgment or blockage. Results In this study, 27 patients who underwent percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) were divided into two groups: Group A (10 patients) had laparoscopic cholecystostomies, and Group B (17 patients) had ultrasound-guided cholecystostomies. The mean ages were 66.7 for Group A and 75.1 for Group B. Most patients were in ASA groups III (14) and IV (10). About 74% had procedures during the day, 26% at night. The mean hospital stay was 13.5 days. Around 55% had elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) as definitive management. Two patients died within 30 days, and eight within a year. About 40% experienced tube dislodgment or blockage complications. Conclusion This study concludes that PC, using both laparoscopic and US-guided techniques, can serve as an interim as well as a definitive measure, particularly in patients who are at high risk for anesthesia and the procedure itself and have multiple comorbidities.

HPB SO36 - Diagnostic Accuracy in Detecting Gall Bladder Polyps: A Retrospective Study

Abstract Background Gallbladder polyps are outgrowths of the gallbladder mucosal wall. They are usually found incidentally on ultrasonography or after cholecystectomy, but can lead to symptoms similar to those caused by gallbladder stones1. It is important to differentiate pseudo-polyps (cholesterol, adenomyomatosis, inflammatory, hyperplastic) from true-polyps (adenomas, adenocarcinomas2,3). The vast majority of polyps detected by ultrasound are pseudo-polyps, with no risk of malignancy. Ultrasound has been considered the gold standard for diagnosis,. However, it is limited by several factors4,5. The primary objective of this study is to assess the accuracy of ultrasound in diagnosing true polyps in patients undergoing surgery for this condition. Method Retrospective review carried out on all US scans reporting Gallbladder polyps for patients who underwent cholecystectomy, with additional data from MRI and CT scans. Sample size 44 patients Time period: From 2019 to present. Analysis was done on Excel Inclusion Criteria: Patients who had cholecystectomies with USS results confirming GB polyps, and have histology reports.Patients who had cholecystectomies with USS results confirming GB stones, and polyps as a co-existing pathology, and have histology reports. Results We included 44 patients our study, all had polyps on USS, and elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the mean age was 52 Years, and 63.6 % were women. Out of 44 USS patients, 24 (54.5%) showed features of polyps on histopathology. However, only 6 (13.6%) specimens were identified as adenomas. 18 USS showed polyps measuring 10mm or more. The majority (55.6%) were benign pathologies (pseudo-polyps). Interestingly, only 3 showed features of adenomas (16.7%). 22 Patients had multiple USS for surveillance, Histology showed polyps in 12 specimens (54.5%), out of which only 4 were adenomas (18.2%). Conclusion The accuracy of transabdominal ultrasound in diagnosing true polyps is limited. However, the sensitivity to distinguish adenomas slightly increases in larger polyps This low diagnostic accuracy underscores the need for caution among surgeons when making clinical decisions based on ultrasound-detected polyps. The high false positive rate suggests that more diagnostic criteria are necessary to improve the reliability of ultrasound in the diagnosis and screening of polyps, which is crucial to help reduce unnecessary procedures in asymptomatic patients who had negative histology reports postoperatively.

EDI&S SO06 Do All Patients with Biliary Problems Need Surgery? Applying C-Gall Study Results to Long Waiters for Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Abstract Background The recent C-GALL study, a multi-centre randomised trial, found no significant difference in quality of life at two years between operative and non-operative management of uncomplicated gallstone disease. This suggests some patients may not benefit from elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), potentially leading to over-listing for surgery. By identifying patients who may no longer need surgery, we could reduce waiting lists and improve resource allocation. This study aims to reassess patients with an enforced period of observation on an elective waiting list for LC, to determine if they wish to make a different decision about proceeding with surgery. Method Patients listed for an elective LC who had been waiting longer than 11 months from referral were reviewed. Patients were contacted through telephone clinics by a surgeon. Data was collected on type of gallstone disease, history of abdominal surgery, biliary pain since last seen by a clinician, pain radiation to the back, pain reduction with simple analgesia, nausea, and heartburn. Identified patients were contacted and, if exhibiting minimal or no symptoms, were offered the option to be removed from the waiting list with 12 months of patient-initiated follow-up and high priority relisting if their clinical condition worsened. Results We contacted 59 patients awaiting elective LC Most were female (49, 83%), had biliary colic (43, 73%), and were under 60 years old (38, 64%). Seventeen patients (29%) were happy to opt out due to lack of symptoms. Of these, 13 (76%) were female, 11 (65%) had biliary colic, and 7 (41%) were under 60. Chi-squared analysis identified age as the only predictive factor, with those under 60 being less likely to opt out (p=0.038). We will continue to monitor representation and the need for reoperation to ensure safety and the findings remain consistent overtime. Conclusion The study demonstrates that a significant proportion of patients awaiting elective LC can be safely managed without planned cholecystectomy, potentially reducing waiting lists, cost and utilisation of healthcare resources. We would advise considering review of long waiters to re-evaluate their clinical need for cholecystectomy in order to improve sustainability within surgery. These findings support a more personalised approach to managing biliary pain, prioritising patients for surgery based on symptom severity.

VS 04 - HPB Laparoscopic trans-vesical approach is safe management for cholecystoduodenal fistula

Abstract Background A 71 year old female initially presented cholangitis. Her MRCP showed a distal common bile duct (CBD) stone. An ERCP was then performed which was not successful due to anatomical challenge in the form of a large diaphragmatic hernia. An elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy with IOC was performed. An incidental cholecystoduodenal fistula was found therefore the clinical decision was made to perform a trans-vesical approach to fistulogram. This showed a fistula was present and that it was not complicated further. This case shows that this approach avoided iatrogenic injury by confirming presence of the fistula and aided further surgical planning. Method Standard four-port technique with 10mm, 30-degree laparoscope. Blunt, sharp, energised and hydro-dissection were employed. The duodenum was adherent to the gallbladder body therefore a trans-vesical enterotomy was performed. Fistulogram confirmed presence of a cholecystoduodenal fistula but nil further pathology. The fistula was dissected from the gallbladder and stapled with the GIA endo- tri-staple 45 Purple. Further dissection to gallbladder to ensure clear visualisation of calot’s triangle. Basket trawl of the CBD was performed and repeat cholangiogram was clear. The gallbladder was dissected from gallbladder fossa, all gallstones were removed and 3L of wash was used to irrigate the intra-abdominal cavity. Results The patient was admitted following the procedure and was discharged on day two with PPI. She was reviewed post-operatively at 12 weeks and had no further issues. She remains well and has had no further episodes of cholangitis or hospital admissions in almost four years since the procedure. Conclusion This case shows an unexpected finding of cholecystoduodenal fistula in a planned laparoscopic cholecystectomy with IOC. It is important to note that some gas was seen in the gallbladder on initial imaging therefore indicating a possible cholecystoduodenal fistula. This trans-vesical approach with fistulogram confirmed a simple fistula and no further pathology and aided safe surgical planning. This improved patient outcomes and avoided iatrogenic injury thus providing a safer way to manage cholecystoenteric fistula. This novel approach to cholecystoduodenal fistula repair improves patient safety, length of stay and by aiding intra-operative planning and avoiding iatrogenic injury.

BN SO11 - Optimising Day Case Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A GIRFT-Based Audit and Efficiency Analysis

Abstract Background Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the gold standard for managing symptomatic gallstone disease and is commonly performed as a day surgery procedure due to its safety and efficiency. Despite its established benefits, recent analyses at our local hospital revealed a decline in the day case rate for elective LC, falling below the national median as highlighted by the Get It Right First Time (GIRFT) data. Method We analysed patient data for elective LC performed between 1st October 2023 and 29th February 2024. The data included patient demographics, length of stay, and reasons for unplanned admissions. Procedures from the hot and emergency lists were excluded from the analysis. To enhance the day case rate, a business case was developed to extend recovery staffing levels and coverage hours in the DSU from 6pm to 9pm. Additionally, we requested the coding team to distinguish elective cases from hot list cases for more accurate future analyses. The impact of these changes will be evaluated in a subsequent audit cycle. Results During the observed period, 86 elective LC cases were performed, with a day case rate of 64% (55/86), exceeding the national median of 60%. The discrepancy with the GIRFT analysis was due to the inclusion of hot list cases in their data. The primary reasons for unplanned admissions included monitoring observations (46%), late afternoon extubations (29%), and intra-operative concerns (18%). The median length of stay for unsuccessful day cases was 1 day. Cost analysis estimated the unplanned admission costs at over £12,000 for LC alone during the observed period, based on the NHS National Tariff 2024/25. Conclusion This audit demonstrated that our day case rate for elective LC surpasses the national median. By identifying key factors leading to unplanned admissions, we implemented targeted interventions, such as extending recovery area hours. These measures aim to further improve the day case rate, enhance patient care, and achieve significant cost savings.

BN SO08 - A Comparison of outcomes following Laparoscopic Cholecystectomies before and after COVID-19

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic led to the suspension of elective surgeries between March 2020 and March 2021 in the NHS and large parts of the world. In Prince Charles Hospital, elective services were phased in from April 2021 and elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies resumed in June 2021. There is an almost universal perception among surgeons that the cholecystectomies after covid disruption, have become more technically demanding, resulting in longer operative times and poorer outcomes. This study aims to quantify the differences in indications, CLOC score, Parkland grades, and outcomes, following elective cholecystectomy, one year before and after COVID Method Laparoscopic Cholecystectomies performed on elective lists between January 2019 and December 2019 by two UGI surgeons were included in the pre-COVID group. Cholecystectomies performed between September 2021 and August 2022 by the same UGI surgeons were included in the post-COVID group. Cholecystectomies on the CEPOD list and procedures which included CBD exploration or choledochoscopies were excluded. Demographics, ASA, indications, waiting times, operative times, CLOC and Parkland scores were collected. Outcome measures were complications, drains, hospital stay and proportion of subtotal colectomy, day case surgeries, and conversions to open. An online calculator for social science statistics was used to analyze data. Results The pre-covid(n=92) and post-covid(n=98) groups were comparable in age(P=.37), gender(P=.06) and ASA(P= .057). Pre Covid, lower Proportion of patients underwent cholecystectomy for previous cholecystitis(precovid 13.04%, post-covid 35.7%)(P<.001). Pre Covid Cholecystectomies were shorter(pre-covid 74 minutes, post-covid 85 minutes, P=.018). The mean CLOC score and Parkland grade in precovid group (CLOC= 4.03, Parkland 1.8) were less than in the postcovid group(mean CLOC=5.41, mean Parkland 2.5)( P<.001, P=.006). Apart from the Subtotal Cholecystectomy rate (5.4% pre-covid vs 12.2 postcovid, P=-04) and drains (P=.02), there were no significant differences in outcome measures. Conclusion This study demonstrares that the COVID disruption resulted in more challenging procedures, indicated by the increase in CLOC score, Parkland grade, and longer operating times. This is a reflection of a much larger proportion of surgeries being performed for previous cholecystitis. There are however no significant differences in outcome, except the higher rates of subtotal cholecystectomy. This suggests that the skills and techniques have compensated for higher difficulty levels. Data does show an approximately 15% difference between the groups in all other outcome measures which however does not reach statistical significance. A larger sample is needed to clarify this.

BN SO09 - Same day discharge after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT)

Abstract Background A key component of elective recovery strategy is to increase day-case provision. GIRFT standards recommend that at least 85% of elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies (LC) should day-cases; most hospitals struggle to achieve this and we aimed to identify barriers to same day discharge after LC. Method Consecutive patients who had LC between December 2022 and March 2023 were identified. Electronic patient records were interrogated to analyse outcomes, length of stay and in-patient treatment. Results 138 patients included, 93 (67%) had elective surgery: ConditionNumber of patients (%)Proportion of elective:acuteBiliary Colic66 (47.5%)60:6 (91.0%:9.0%)Pancreatitis17 (12.2%)4:13 (23.5%:76.5%)Cholecystitis40 (30.0%)19:21 (47.5%:52.5%)CBD stones11 (7.9%)8:3 (72.7%:27.3%)Gallbladder polyp2 (1.4%)2:0 (100%:0%)Cholecystitis and CBD stones2 (1.4%)2:0 (100%:0%) 66 elective patients (70%) were discharged on the same day. Common reasons for staying overnight were late finish (11, 15%), drain or antibiotics (10, 14%) and anaesthetic reasons (10, 14%). Of admitted patients, 15 (21%) did not have any post-operative investigations and 21 (30%) had no in-patient treatment. Conclusion Most patients were managed on a day-case basis, though not to national GIRFT standards. Of admitted patients, 30% did not need in-patient treatment; these patients could have safely been sent home and had they been, the unit would have met national standards. These results highlight the potential for an extended stay area or a post-operative next-day treatment area to increase day-case activity.

BN SO26 - Predicting successful and safe day-case laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Validation of the Cholecystectomy as a Day Case (CAAD) score

Abstract Background Day case surgery is a major target for the NHS as it improves patient satisfaction and reduces financial costs. The CAAD score, using pre-operative variables from clinic letters and electronic sources, aids in selecting patients for day-case lists. This study assessed the validity of the CAAD score in predicting successful and safe day-case laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) at an isolated day unit. Method A retrospective analysis was performed on patients scheduled for elective LC between January 2020 and March 2022. Outcomes (same day discharge rate, length of stay, conversion to open, bile leak, mortality) were stratified by CAAD score (≤5, >5). Statistical analyses included Chi square and independent t-tests using SPSS 28.0. Results 58 patients were analysed.18/38 patients with CAAD ≤5 achieved same day discharge compared to 4/20 with CAAD >5 (p<0.05). 36 patients stayed for ≥1 day. The mean length of hospitalization was 1.38 days (range 1-2) for the 13 patients with CAAD ≤5. 15 patients with CAAD >5 stayed significantly longer i.e. 2.53 days (range 1-10) (p <0.05). Longer stay for scores >5 was due to difficult dissection (13%), conversion to open (13%) and drain insertion (7%). For scores ≤5, reasons were drain insertion, postoperative pain, nausea, and difficult dissection, each at 8%. No major complications were noted in either group. Conclusion The CAAD score is a predictive tool for successful and safe day-case LC, correlating lower scores with higher success rates and shorter hospital stays. Implementing the CAAD score can improve patient selection, potentially reduce unnecessary overnight stays, and support operational efficiency in isolated day units.

BN SO20 - Day-case laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Predictors of failure

Abstract Background Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (LC) is the main treatment option for symptomatic gallstone disease. It is commonly performed as a day case operation and Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) have suggested that this should be the default position for all trusts. NHSE Model Hospital analyses hospital metrics and sets national benchmarks. They suggest that the day case rate for LC should be greater than 71.4%. The aim of our study is to analyse all elective LC’s over a two year period and identify factors that increase the likelihood of day-case failure and the common reasons for this. Method All patients who had LC between 1st July 2020 and 30th June 2022 were identified. All emergency cholecystectomies were excluded from analysis. Patient and operative details were retrieved from their electronic record and a Charlson co-morbidity index was calculated. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS with Chi-squared tests performed for categorical data and ANOVA for continuous data. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Statistical significance was taken as p<0.05. Results 788 patients had elective cholecystectomies with 74.0% being successful day-case. Factors increasing day-case failure included: Admission with gallbladder disease within past year (OR 3.15 (2.26-4.37), CBD diameter>8mm (OR 2.17(1.44-3.26), thick-walled gallbladder (OR 2.20(1.59-3.04), on-table cholangiogram (OR 4.16 (2.21-7.84), sub-total cholecystectomy (OR 30.6(9.19-102) and male sex (OR 1.55(1.11-2.18). Patients who failed day-case had higher mean age (59 vs 49) and higher co-morbidity index (2.16 vs 1.44). The most common reasons for day-case failure were complex procedure (41%), and symptom control (35%). Only 20% had planned admissions. 30-day morbidity and re-admission rate were higher for failed day-case patients. Conclusion Our hospital complies with the day case benchmark set out by Model Hospital. Furthermore, only 5.2% of patients undergoing elective cholecystectomy had a pre-operative decision for an inpatient stay demonstrating that day case is the default for the vast majority of patients. Despite this, improvement could still be made with post-operative symptom control to try and increase this number further.

Antibiotics Prophylaxis for Elective Pediatric Laparoscopic Cholecystectomies

BackgroundThe Surgical Infection Society (SIS) guidelines recommend against the use of surgical antibiotic prophylaxis (SAP) for low-risk patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies. MethodsUsing National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) data, 5,440 pediatric patients were identified who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy from 2021-2022. Patients who had immunodeficiency, active malignancy, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification 3-5, procedure indicated for infection, emergent procedure, received intravenous antibiotics before the prophylaxis window, or missing SAP data were excluded. Results3,959 patients were included in the analysis. Among these patients, 3,570 (90.2%) received SAP. Overall incidence of 30-day superficial incisional surgical site infection (SSI), deep incisional SSI, and organ space SSI were 0.9%, 0.0%, and 0.1%, respectively. The incidence of superficial incisional SSI was significantly higher in the patients who did not receive SAP (SAP 0.8%, no SAP 2.1%; p=0.024). The incidence of organ space SSI was also significantly higher in the patients who did not receive SAP (SAP 0.1%, no SAP 0.8%; p=0.008). There was no difference in the incidence of C. diff colitis (SAP 0.1%, no SAP 0.0%; p=1.000). Multivariable modeling, controlling for Hispanic ethnicity, age, and gender, demonstrated patients that received SAP were significantly less likely to have any postoperative SSI compared to patients who did not receive SAP (OR=0.35). ConclusionHospitals are not currently compliant with SIS guidelines regarding omission of antibiotic prophylaxis for low-risk patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies. The authors advocate for additional studies and reassessment of current guidelines for pediatric patients given the above findings. Type of StudyRetrospective comparative study Level of EvidenceIII

Comparison of Port-Site Hernia Development With And Without Use of Dilator For Gall Bladder Extraction Site in Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the incidence of port-site hernia with and without use of dilator for extraction of gall bladder in elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Study Design: Quasi-experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Combined Military Hospital, Bahawalpur Pakistan, from Oct 2019 to Oct 2021. Methodology: Sixty patients scheduled to undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy were included in the study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients were divided into two equal groups (n=30). Group-A included patients in whom dilator was used and Group-B had those patients in whom dilator was not used. All patients were followed up by clinical examination for development of hernia at the port-site for extraction of gall bladder for 18-24 months postoperatively. Frequency of clinical development of gall bladder extraction port-site hernia was noted for every group. Result: Mean age of the patients was 42.90±14.12 years with an age range of 22 to 85 years. Of all the patients 9(18%) were male and 51(82%) patients were females. In Group-A, one patient developed port-site hernia clinically whereas in Group-B no patients developed this condition. The p-value was found to be 0.31. These results are statistically insignificant showing that use of dilator in elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy does not increase the incidence of port-site hernia significantly. Conclusion: Use of dilator does not significantly affect the incidence of development of port-site hernia from where gall bladder is extracted.

Rare Case Reports on Ectopic Liver Tissue: Incidence, Surgical Management, and Outcomes

Introduction and importance: Ectopic liver tissue is a rare finding, often discovered incidentally during procedures like cholecystectomy. Understanding its clinical implications, including potential malignancy and complications, is crucial for effective management and improving patient outcomes. Case presentation: A 45-year-old female presented with six months of biliary colic, worsened by fatty meals. Preoperative ultrasound revealed a gallbladder with microcalculi. During elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy, a brownish tissue fragment resembling hepatic parenchyma was found on the gallbladder fundus and removed. Histopathology confirmed ectopic liver tissue with mild steatosis and no malignancy. Clinical discussion: Ectopic liver tissue, with a prevalence of 0.47%, typically attaches to the gallbladder but can also be found in other abdominal and thoracic locations. It may be linked to congenital malformations and has a risk of degeneration into malignancy due to its incomplete vascular and ductal system. Diagnosis is usually incidental during surgery, and en-bloc removal is advised to prevent complications and potential neoplastic transformation. Identifying its vascular supply before dissection is crucial to avoid severe bleeding. Conclusion: Ectopic liver tissue, despite its rarity, requires careful management due to its potential for malignancy and complications. Timely detection and en-bloc removal are vital to prevent adverse outcomes and ensure optimal patient care.

Adapting general anaesthesia for a patient with class III obesity and obstructive sleep apnoea undergoing day case laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A case report.

This report describes the anaesthesia provided for a class III obese patient with obstructive sleep apnoea, undergoing an elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Several adaptations were required to provide safe anaesthesia. A McGrath video laryngoscopy was utilised for intubation. The patient was positioned in the ramped position, thereby increasing time to desaturation on induction of anaesthesia. Pressure controlled ventilation - volume guaranteed mode was selected for ventilation to provide consistent tidal volumes. An increased level of positive end-expiratory pressure was utilised to minimise atelectasis. Drug doses were carefully considered and calculated with the aid of The Society for Obesity and Bariatric Anaesthesia dose calculator. The airway management adaptations provided an unobstructed view for intubation. Peak airway pressures during surgery remained within safe limits and no atelectasis was evident postoperatively. Pain was kept under control and desaturation was avoided during postanaesthetic care. The patient was discharged home later that evening.

Efficacy of Laparoscopic-Assisted Subcostal Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) Block: A Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: To analyze efficacy of laparoscopic administered Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) block on pain scores and opioid consumption in the first 24 hours in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Study design and setting: The randomized, double-blinded trial was conducted in surgical unit, Shalamar Medical & Dental College Lahore from September 2019 to March 2020. Methodology: 100 patients of either gender scheduled for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were included using consecutive probability sampling method. After informed consent, patients were randomized into Intervention TAP GroupA and Control Group-B. Intervention TAP Group-A received laparoscopic aided TAP block with 20ml 0.5% Ropivacaine in subcostal region while Control Group-B received 20ml saline solution which was used as placebo. Both groups received paracetamol 1gm intravenous eight-hourly and Ketorolac 30mg intravenous 12-hourly. Nalbuphine 5mg intravenous was administered as “rescue analgesic” in patients having pain score of four or above. Postoperative pain scores at rest and on coughing were documented using numerical rating scores (VAS) at 2, 4, 6, 12, and 24 hours. Results: There was a significant difference (p-value=0.038, 0.000, 0.025, 0.000, 0.000) in pain scores over the first 24 hours postoperatively in laparoscopically assisted Intervention TAP Group-A. The total nalbuphine consumption was significantly reduced in Intervention TAP Group-A as compared to Control Group-B. Conclusions: Laparoscopic administered TAP block significantly reduced postoperative pain and total opioid consumption following laparoscopic cholecystectomy

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Background: Gallstones are a common gastrointestinal disorder often requiring cholecystectomy. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the gold standard for gallbladder removal, involves pneumoperitoneum (PNP) using carbon dioxide (CO2) for better visibility and access. However, postoperative shoulder pain remains a frequent complication, largely attributed to CO2 insufflation. This study compares the incidence and severity of postoperative shoulder pain between low-pressure pneumoperitoneum (LPP) and standard-pressure pneumoperitoneum (SPP) during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Materials and Methods: A prospective interventional study was conducted at SMS Hospital, Jaipur, including 80 patients with gallstone disease undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Patients were divided into two groups: LPP (8–10 mm Hg) and SPP (12–14 mm Hg), each comprising 40 patients. Pain was assessed using the Verbal Rating Scale (VRS) at 2, 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively. Data were analyzed using the unpaired two-tailed t-test, with a P value < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The incidence of shoulder pain was significantly lower in the LPP group (10%) compared to the SPP group (40%) (P = 0.00). Mean VAS scores at 2, 6,12,24, and 48 hours post-surgery were consistently lower in the LPP group, with significant differences noted at each time point. At 12 hours, the LPP group had a mean VAS score of 0.62 ± 0.34 compared to 2.92 ± 1.4 in the SPP group (P = 0.00). By 48 hours, no LPP patients reported shoulder pain, whereas the SPP group still reported a mean VAS score of 0.62 ± 0.21 (P = 0.00). Conclusion: LPP is associated with significantly lower incidence and severity of postoperative shoulder pain compared to SPP in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. These findings suggest that LPP could be a better option for reducing patient discomfort and improving postoperative outcomes

A Clinical Prospective Randomised Comparative Study Of Ultrasound Guided Bilateral Subcostal Transversus Abdominis Plane Block And Port Site Infiltration With Bupivacaine For Post-Operative Analgesia In Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy.

Background: Post-operative pain management is critical in laparoscopic cholecystectomy to enhance patient recovery and satisfaction. This study compares the efficacy of ultrasound-guided bilateral subcostal transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block and port site infiltration with bupivacaine for post-operative analgesia. Methods: In this prospective, randomized, comparative study, 60(30/30) patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly assigned to one of two groups: Group A received an ultrasound-guided bilateral subcostal TAP block with 0.25% bupivacaine (20 ml on each side), while Group B received port site infiltration with 0.25% bupivacaine (5 ml per port). The primary outcome was the duration of post-operative analgesia, assessed by the time to first rescue analgesic request. Secondary outcomes included total analgesic consumption in the first 24 hours post-operatively, pain intensity measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at 1, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours, and any complications related to the procedures. Results: The TAP block group (Group A) demonstrated a significantly longer duration of analgesia compared to the port site infiltration group (Group B) (p < 0.05). Group A also exhibited lower total analgesic consumption and lower VAS scores at all time points. No significant complications were observed in either group. Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided bilateral subcostal TAP block with bupivacaine provides superior post-operative analgesia compared to port site infiltration in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, with a longer duration of pain relief and reduced analgesic requirements. This technique should be considered a viable option for enhancing post-operative recovery in these patients.

Pre-Operative Evaluation of Risk Factors for Difficult Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Cholelithiasis or the gallstone disease is the most common biliary pathology. 10-15% population of western world is estimated to be affected by gallstone disease, of which majority remains asymptomatic (>80%) and 1-2 % of these asymptomatic patients will develop symptoms needing surgery per year. In this prospective study, 77 patients years undergoing elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (LC) and meeting all inclusion criteria in Department of General Surgery, Nepal Medical College and Teaching Hospital over period of 1 year. History, detailed clinical examination and laboratory investigations were performed as per the working proforma. Operative time and conversion to open cholecystectomy were recorded. The association between clinical, laboratory and sonographic factors with difficult laparoscopy were obtained. Data analysis was done using SPSS-17 version. Out of 77 patients, 63 were females. Body mass index (BMI) above 30 representing obese population were 33.2% with p value 0.0004. Also, 41.5% patients had history of acute cholecystitis while 12.9% patients had previous history of abdominal surgery and 70.1% patients had history of recurrent abdominal pain. Total of 19.4% patients had increased leucocyte count. On ultrasonography thickened GB wall of >3 mm was seen in 42.8%, distended GB was seen in 41.5%, stone size of >1 cm was seen in 70.1% patients and multiple stones were seen in 84.4%. Similarly, duration of surgery was >90 mins in 31.1% and 7.04% patients underwent conversion to open cholecystectomy both of which were considered difficult laparoscopy. Our study reveled that clinical factors like age, BMI, history of acute cholecystitis, previous history of recurrent abdominal pain and past history of abdominal surgery had significant association in prediction of difficult LC.

Indocyanine green in laparoscopic cholecystectomy: utility and correlation with a preoperative risk score

BackgroundThis study aims to compare the visualization of the cystic duct-common bile duct junction with indocyanine green (ICG) among 3 groups of patients divided according to the difficulty of elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. MethodsConducted at a single center, this non-randomized, prospective, observational study encompassed 168 patients who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy and were assessed with a preoperative risk score to predict difficult cholecystectomies, including clinical factors and radiological findings. Three groups were identified: low, moderate, and high risk. A dose of 0.25 mg of IV ICG was administered during anesthesia induction and the different objectives were evaluated. ResultsThe visualization of the cystic duct-common bile duct junction was achieved in 28 (100%), 113 (91.1%), and 10 (63%) patients in the low, moderate, and high-risk groups, respectively. The high-risk group had longer total operative time, higher conversion, more complications and longer hospital stay. In the surgeon’s subjective assessment, ICG was considered useful in 36% of the low-risk group, 58% in the moderate-risk group, and 69% in the high-risk group. Additionally, there were no cases where ICG modified the surgeon’s surgical approach in the low-risk group, compared to 11% in the moderate-risk group and 25% in the high-risk group (p < 0.01). ConclusionsThe results of this study confirm that in the case of difficult cholecystectomies, the visualization of the cystic duct-common bile duct junction is achieved in 63% of cases and prompts a modification of the surgical procedure in one out of four patients.

The effect of lung-recruitment maneuver on postoperative shoulder pain in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a randomized controlled trial.

Lung-recruitment maneuvers (LRM) have been shown to reduce postoperative pain after laparoscopic surgery. This study aimed to investigate the association of LRM with the incidence of shoulder pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. A randomized controlled study was conducted with 110 patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy from July 2022 to March 2023. Participants were randomized to receive either routine exsufflation or LRM at pneumoperitoneum release. The postoperative shoulder pain and abdominal pain were assessed at 1, 4, 6, 12, and 24h after surgery using a numeric rating scale. Analgesic consumption and postoperative nausea or vomiting (PONV) were evaluated during the first 24h after surgery. The incidence of shoulder pain during the first 24h after surgery was significantly lower in the LRM group compared to the control group (26.9 vs. 59.3%; P = 0.001). The median [interquartile range] score of worst shoulder pain was significantly lower compared to the control group (3 [2-3] vs 4 [3-5.5]; P = 0.003). Participants in the LRM group showed reduced abdominal pain at rest at 4 and 24h after surgery, and experienced significantly lower intensities of abdominal pain during mobilization at all time points over 24h after surgery. There were no significant differences in opioid consumption or the incidence of PONV between the groups. LRM reduces both the incidence and intensity of shoulder pain during 24h after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Additionally, LRM was associated with reduced intensity of abdominal pain during mobilization over the study period.