Early Cholecystectomy after Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Is Feasible and Safe

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is the preferred treatment for cholelithiasis with common bile duct stones. However, the optimal timing of LC after ERCP remains controversial. This study aimed to identify the ideal time interval between ERCP and LC. Data from patients who underwent LC after ERCP between November 2016 and August 2022 were retrieved from the electronic medical information system. The patients were categorized into early cholecystectomy (within 72 h of ERCP) and delayed cholecystectomy (after 72 h). The impact of the time interval between ERCP and LC on perioperative outcomes was analyzed. A total of 197 patients were included in the study, with 45 undergoing early cholecystectomy and 152 undergoing delayed cholecystectomy. No significant differences in the preoperative characteristics or operative morbidity were observed between the groups (p = 0.286). However, a significant correlation was found between the time interval from ERCP to LC and the total length of stay (r = -350, p < 0.001). The findings suggest that early cholecystectomy after ERCP is feasible and safe, and performing LC within the first 72 h does not adversely affect postoperative outcomes.