[Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: new evaluation of a surgical method in the light of endoscopic techniques]

The laparoscopic cholecystotomy was developed to remove calculi while preserving a functioning gallbladder. 120 phantom tests on pig's gallbladders were performed. No major complications were observed in 20 animal experiments with pigs. Compared with competing conservative and interventional methods the laparoscopic cholecystotomy provides immediate removal of stones and a definite closure of the gallbladder by a clip. Calcified stones are no contraindication for the procedure. After introduction into the clinical routine, an outpatient treatment in local anaesthesia seems to be possible. Patients with a high operative risk should be treated by this method. The laparoscopic cholecystotomy represents an alternative to the percutaneous transhepatic litholysis and the ESWL.