Improving the cost-effectiveness of laparoscopic cholecystectomy

The rapid shift from open to laparoscopic cholecystectomy has not been the result of carefully planned studies, but rather the result of pressure from patients to undergo the new procedure in order to avoid the pain from a traditional incision. In order for laparoscopic cholecystectomy to prove cost effective, there must be a low complication rate, the cost of discretionary equipment must be considered, and the role of routine cholangiography seriously questioned.