[Postoperative respiratory functions after laparoscopic cholecystectomy]

We studied the influences of the laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) on the postoperative pulmonary functions by performing respiratory function tests, blood gas analysis and the measurement of the rib cage contributions (RCC). LC resulted in less postoperative pulmonary dysfunctions compared with laparotomic cholecystectomy. After LC, vital capacity and PaO2 were not markedly affected, and RCC remained low. After LC, hospitalization was shorter, LC does not injure the abdominal muscles of the patients, and preserves the function of the diaphragm. In addition, it gives less wound pains. Therefore, we conclude that LC has many advantages for patients, especially for those with complications, and it will be used more in the near future.