Self-reported Outcomes After Cholecystectomy for Pediatric Hyperkinetic Biliary Dyskinesia

Biliary dyskinesia (BD) is a common indication for cholecystectomy in children. Current literature demonstrates an improvement in symptoms after cholecystectomy in most pediatric patients with an EF <35%; however, data supporting the efficacy of cholecystectomy for hyperkinetic BD (EF >65%) is sparse. We sought to determine whether children with hyperkinetic BD (HBD) had resolution of their symptoms after laparoscopic cholecystectomy at our institution.

We conducted a retrospective chart review of children who had undergone laparoscopic cholecystectomy for HBD at our institution between September 2010 and July 2015. Patients completed a phone survey about symptom resolution, whether they were happy to have undergone cholecystectomy, overall satisfaction on a 1-10 scale, and additional workup for those with ongoing pain. Analysis was performed using STATA statistical software with a P-value < 0.05 as statistically significant.

Thirteen patients met inclusion criteria. Median gallbladder ejection fraction was 93% [IQR: 90, 97]. Median postoperative follow-up was 59 d [IQR: 25, 151] at which time 50% reported resolution of symptoms. Eight patients participated in the survey at a median follow-up of 45 mo [IQR: 40, 66]. Fifty percent reported ongoing abdominal pain. Frequency of pain varied among patients with pain, occurring from <1 time per week to a few times per day. Five patients (63%), including one patient with ongoing pain, were happy that their gallbladder had been removed and overall satisfaction rating was 5 on a scale of 1-10.

Only half of children with HBD were asymptomatic at long-term follow-up. Cholecystectomy for HBD may or may not improve symptoms.