Outpatient open cholecystectomy

Area of Science:

• Surgical innovation
• Patient recovery protocols
• Minimally invasive surgery outcomes

Background:

• Traditional cholecystectomy involves inpatient stays.
• Evaluating same-day discharge for open cholecystectomy is a novel approach.
• Patient selection is crucial for outpatient surgical success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and safety of same-day discharge after open cholecystectomy.
• To establish a benchmark for comparing outpatient laparoscopic cholecystectomy outcomes.
• To evaluate patient recovery and satisfaction following outpatient open cholecystectomy.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 94 consecutive patients undergoing open cholecystectomy.
• Eligible patients (<55 years, no common bile duct exploration, no significant comorbidities) were selected for same-day discharge.
• Marcaine (bupivacaine hydrochloride) was used for subfascial injection; vertical incisions were employed in some cases.

Main Results:

• 44 of 64 eligible patients were discharged on the same day of surgery.
• Patients were mobile and tolerating oral liquids shortly after the procedure.
• One patient required a brief readmission; high patient satisfaction and return to usual activities within 7-21 days were reported.

Conclusions:

• Outpatient open cholecystectomy is a safe and effective option for carefully selected patients.
• This approach offers a viable standard for comparison with laparoscopic cholecystectomy outcomes.
• Same-day discharge can lead to high patient satisfaction and efficient recovery.