Outcome study of cholecystectomy during pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine
• Gastrointestinal Surgery

Background:

• Limited data exists on the safety of laparoscopic cholecystectomy during pregnancy.
• Previous studies often included mixed surgical procedures, necessitating a focused analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and outcomes of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in pregnant patients.
• To compare laparoscopic versus open cholecystectomy in this population.

Main Methods:

• A registry-based study combining data from the Connecticut Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Registry and the Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA).
• Analysis of 46 cholecystectomies performed in pregnant patients between 1992 and 1996.
• Maternal and infant outcomes were collected through hospital cooperation.

Main Results:

• 20 laparoscopic and 26 open cholecystectomies were analyzed.
• Laparoscopic procedures were performed earlier in gestation (mean 18.4 weeks) compared to open procedures (mean 24.8 weeks).
• One maternal-fetal mortality occurred in the laparoscopic group; one fetal demise in the open group. Open surgery had more premature contractions (8 vs 1).

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a safe option for pregnant patients, not increasing fetal complications.
• Open cholecystectomy is associated with a higher incidence of premature uterine contractions.
• Performing cholecystectomy later in gestation may increase risks, particularly with open procedures.