Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the paediatric population: A quality-of-life study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Quality of Life Research

Background:

• Cholelithiasis (gallstones) is rare in children but causes significant quality of life issues.
• Symptoms of pediatric gallstones can severely impact daily life and well-being.
• Early intervention is crucial for managing pediatric cholelithiasis and its associated burdens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate patient-reported outcomes after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in children.
• To assess the impact of LC on gastrointestinal (GI) health-related quality of life (QoL) in pediatric patients.
• To identify specific GI symptom domains that improve post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of children under 12 years undergoing LC (2016-2022).
• Utilized the PedsQL™ GI module questionnaire for patient/parent-reported outcomes.
• Analyzed changes in QoL across 14 GI symptom domains pre- and post-surgery.

Main Results:

• 35 children (mean age 7.24 years) were included; biliary colic was the main indication (70.3%).
• Significant improvement in mean PedsQL™ GI scores post-LC (93.37 to 99.65, P < 0.0001).
• Key domains showing improvement included stomach pain, discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and worry.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is an effective treatment for pediatric cholelithiasis.
• The procedure leads to a substantial enhancement in the quality of life for affected children.
• Improved GI symptom scores indicate better health outcomes and reduced symptom burden post-surgery.