Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Initial experience at Riyadh Central Hospital.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• Gallstone disease is a common condition requiring surgical intervention.
• Laparoscopic cholecystectomy offers a less invasive alternative to traditional open surgery.
• Evaluating the initial outcomes of laparoscopic cholecystectomy is crucial for adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the initial experience and outcomes of laparoscopic cholecystectomy at Riyadh Central Hospital.
• To assess the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of this new surgical technique.
• To compare the results with those of open cholecystectomy.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 160 patients with gallstone disease admitted over three months.
• Analysis of patient demographics, diagnoses, and surgical procedures performed (laparoscopic vs. open cholecystectomy).
• Evaluation of success rates, conversion rates, complications, operating times, and hospital stays.

Main Results:

• 127 patients (69.4%) underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy, with a 94.5% success rate.
• Conversion to open cholecystectomy occurred in 5.5% of cases.
• Average hospital stay was significantly shorter for laparoscopic (3.6 days) versus open (8.9 days) procedures.
• One major complication (duodenal perforation) and no mortality were reported.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a safe and effective procedure for gallstone disease.
• The technique demonstrates a high success rate and favorable patient outcomes, including reduced hospital stay.
• This study supports the widespread adoption of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in clinical practice.