A meta-analysis of outcomes after routine aspiration of the gallbladder during cholecystectomy

We conducted a meta-analysis of published literature comparing outcomes after aspirating (ASP) the gallbladder versus nonaspiration (NASP). Electronic databases were searched from January 1985 to November 2009. A meta-analysis was performed to obtain a summative outcome. Two randomized, controlled trials involving 360 patients were analyzed. A total of 180 patients were in the ASP group, and 180 were in the NASP group. There was no significant increase in operative time in the ASP group compared with the NASP group [random-effects model: standardized mean difference, -0.72; 95% confidence interval (CI), -2.16, 0.71; z = 0.99; df = 1; P = 0.32], but there was significant heterogeneity among trials (Q = 42.4; P < 0.001; I2 = 98%). Patients undergoing ASP were less likely to have a gallbladder perforation [random-effects model: risk ratio (RR), 0.42; 95% CI, 0.19, 0.96; z = 2.05; df = 1; P < 0.05], but no difference was found regarding the loss of gallstones (random-effects model: RR, 1.33; 95% CI, 0.30, 5.85; z = 0.38; df = 1; P = 0.70). No difference was seen for liver bed bleeding (P = 0.43) or overall 30-day infection rates (P = 0.66). After aspiration, gallbladder perforation rates may be lower. This does not appear to translate into decreased loss of gallstones or infection rates. There was no significant difference between techniques in blood loss from the liver bed. Further randomized, controlled trials and follow-up studies are required to confirm these results and to establish long-term sequelae.