[Laparoscopic cholecystectomy--minimally invasive surgery]

In 1987, Mouret devised a technique of performing cholecystectomy through a laparoscope. When performed correctly and on the right indications, this type of minimal invasive surgery has distinct advantages for the patients. Postoperative hospitalization is reduced to a few days and most of the patients can return to work or normal activities within a week or two. In this department, laparoscopic cholecystectomy was used for treatment of symptomatic gallbladder stones in 34 patients. In three patients the procedure was converted to an open laparotomy. No mortality and no ductal injuries were observed and no re-operations were necessary. The operating time averaged 102 minutes and the postoperative stay was 2.3 days. The average duration of sick-leave was 12 days. We are convinced, that this new technique will play a dominant role in the future treatment of symptomatic cholelithiasis.