Outpatient cholecystectomy simulated in an inpatient population

This prospective clinical trial evaluates the feasibility and safety of elective cholecystectomy in a simulated outpatient protocol in 40 patients. Results were compared with a 19-patient control group managed by conventional postoperative methods. Oral liquids were begun in the recovery room, intravenous fluids were discontinued 4 hours after surgery, and enteral analgesics and antiemetics were provided on the ward. Protocol patients were randomized in a double-blind fashion to receive metoclopramide or placebo after surgery to assess its influence on the early tolerance of oral intake. In the protocol group, nausea without emesis occurred in nine patients (23%); 11 others (28%) had nausea with emesis. This was not significantly different from the control group. Metoclopramide-treated patients did not demonstrate a lower incidence of nausea or emesis but did tolerate oral liquids earlier after surgery than the placebo group (P less than 0.05). After release from recovery, eight protocol patients (20%) requested parenteral narcotics for relief of pain. Postoperative urinary catheterization was required in nine protocol patients (23%) and five control patients (26%). No major complications occurred. Outpatient cholecystectomy is both feasible and safe. Metoclopramide may allow earlier tolerance of enteral liquids postoperatively.