Racial disparities in time to laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis.

BACKGROUND: Disparities in healthcare exist, yet few data are available on racial differences in time from admission to surgery. This study aimed to compare time from admission to laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis between non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic White patients. METHODS: Patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis from 2010 to 2020 were identified using NSQIP. Time to surgery and additional preoperative, operative, and postoperative variables were analyzed. RESULTS: In the univariate analysis, 19.4% of Black patients experienced a time to surgery >1 day compared with 13.4% of White patients (p < 0.0001). In the multivariable analysis, controlling for potential confounding factors, Black patients were found to be more likely than White patients to experience a time to surgery >1 day (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.17-1.30, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Further investigation is indicated to better define the nature and significance of gender, race, and other biases in surgical care. Surgeons should be aware that biases may adversely impact patient care and should strive to identify and proactively address them to promote health equity in surgery.

Opciones terapéuticas para la colecistitis aguda: de las guías de Tokio 2018 a la práctica clínica / Therapeutic options for acute cholecystitis: from the Tokyo guidelines 2018 to clinical practice / Opções terapêuticas para colecistite aguda: das diretrizes de Tóquio 2018 à prática clínica

Resumen: Introducción: el tratamiento "gold standard" de la colecistitis aguda es la colecistectomía laparoscópica temprana. En pacientes añosos de alto riesgo anestésico-quirúrgico, con cuadros de evolución subaguda y/o con repercusión sistémica, es alternativa el tratamiento médico exclusivo o asociado al drenaje vesicular percutáneo. Objetivo: analizar y comparar las recomendaciones internacionales con las conductas terapéuticas en dos centros asistenciales de tercer nivel para pacientes con colecistitis aguda. Método: trabajo descriptivo, prospectivo de 161 pacientes con colecistitis aguda litiásica asistidos en los departamentos de emergencia del Hospital de Clínicas y el Hospital Español entre mayo de 2018 y mayo de 2019. Resultados: la colecistectomía laparoscópica temprana fue indicada en el 88% de los pacientes, con 3% de conversión y 9% de morbilidad. 12% recibieron manejo no operatorio, asociándose en el 65% colecistostomía percutánea. La edad avanzada, comorbilidades, discrasias y la severidad del cuadro presentaron asociación significativa con la modalidad terapéutica (p <0,05). El 40% de los pacientes en los que se realizó manejo no operatorio presentó recurrencias sintomáticas. A todos se les realizó la colecistectomía en diferido. Conclusiones: la colecistectomía laparoscópica temprana es la conducta terapéutica más frecuente. Las principales indicaciones de manejo no operatorio en nuestro medio son las características sistémicas desfavorables. El mismo presenta altas tasas de éxito y escasa morbilidad con una recurrencia sintomática del 40%.

Abstract: Introduction: early laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard treatment for acute cholecystitis. However, exclusive medical treatment (EMC) or medical treatment associated with percutaneous gallbladder drainage is the treatment of choice in elderly patients given their high surgical and anesthetic risk and upon the subacute course of the condition and/or its systemic repercussions. Objective: to analyze and compare international guidelines to the therapeutic behavior for patients with acute cholecystectomy in two third-level hospitals. Methodology: descriptive, prospective study of 161 patients with litiasic acute cholecystitis treated in the ER of Hospital de Clínicas and Hospital Español between May 2018 and May 2019. Results: early laparoscopic cholecystectomy was indicated in 88% of patients, conversion being 3% and morbidity 9%. Twelve percent of patients received non-surgical treatment, 65% of which evidenced percutaneous cholecystostomy. Old age, comorbidities, dyscrasias, and severity of the condition were closely related to the therapeutic modality (p < 0.05). Forty percent of patients who received non-surgical treatment presented symptomatic repercussions. They all underwent delayed cholecystectomy. Conclusions: early laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most frequent treatment of choice. Unfavorable systemic characteristics are the main indications for non-surgical management in our country. This surgical treatment evidences high success rates and scarce morbidity with 40% of systemic repercussions.

Resumo: Introdução: o tratamento padrão ouro da colecistite aguda é a colecistectomia laparoscópica precoce. Em pacientes idosos com alto risco anestésico-cirúrgico, com evolução subaguda e/ou repercussão sistêmica, o tratamento clínico isolado ou associado à drenagem percutânea da vesícula biliar é uma alternativa. Objetivo: analisar e comparar recomendações internacionais com condutas terapêuticas em dois centros terciários para pacientes com colecistite aguda. Método: estudo descritivo e prospectivo de 161 pacientes com colecistite aguda de cálculos atendidos nos serviços de emergência do Hospital de Clínicas e Hospital Español no período maio de 2018 - maio de 2019. Resultados: a colecistectomia laparoscópica precoce foi indicada em 88% dos pacientes, com 3% de conversão e 9% de morbidade. 12% receberam tratamento não operatório, associado a 65% colecistostomia percutânea. Idade avançada, comorbidades, discrasias e gravidade do quadro apresentaram associação significativa com a modalidade terapêutica (p < 0,05). 40% dos pacientes nos quais o manejo não operatório foi realizado apresentaram recidivas sintomáticas. Todos foram submetidos à colecistectomia diferida. Conclusões: a colecistectomia laparoscópica precoce é a abordagem terapêutica mais frequente. As principais indicações para o manejo não operatório em nosso meio são as características sistêmicas desfavoráveis. Apresentando altas taxas de sucesso e baixa morbidade com recorrência sintomática de 40%.

Factores de riesgo prequirúrgicos para una colecistectomía laparoscópica difícil / Preoperative risk factors for difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy

RESUMEN Antecedentes: varios estudios observacionales han identificado factores de riesgo (FR) para una colecistectomía laparoscópica difícil (CLD). Objetivo: identificar los FR preoperatorios para CLD en un hospital público de mediana complejidad. Material y métodos: estudio prospectivo de cohorte transversal. Se analizaron 80 pacientes mayores de 18 años sometidos a colecistectomía laparoscópica, entre enero y diciembre de 2019. Se analizaron las variables: edad, sexo, IMC (índice de masa corporal), litiasis vesicular, pancreatitis aguda, colecistitis aguda o crónica, síndrome de Mirizzi, CPRE dentro del mes, numero de cólicos en el último mes, si presentó al menos un cólico en la última semana, leucocitos, enzimas hepáticas mayores, bilirrubina total, hallazgos de ecografía prequirúrgicos, antecedentes de cirugías abdominales previas. Resultados: la incidencia de CLD fue de 47,5%. La tasa de conversión a cirugía convencional fue del 11,25%, el 100% fueron CLD. Los FR para CLD incluyeron sexo masculino (OR: 4,50, IC 95%:1,60-12,62, p: 0,004), cólico en la semana previa a la cirugía (OR:7,17, IC 95%:1,89-27,23, p: 0,004), paredes engrosadas de la vesícula (OR: 4.90, IC 95%:1,90-12,70, p: 0,001), edema perivesicular (OR: 7,14 IC 95%:1,45-35,13 p: 0,016), la vesícula hidrópica (OR: 4,94, IC 95%:1,44-16,88, p: 0,011) y las cirugías previas (OR: 4.38 IC 95%:1,27-15,10 p: 0,001). En el análisis multivariado vemos que los pacientes de sexo masculino y pacientes con cirugías previas presentaban un riesgo elevado para CLD (OR: 6,63 IC 95%:1,75-25,08 p: 0.005; OR: 11.70 IC 95%:1,48-92,37 p: 0,020). Conclusión: se deben centrar los esfuerzos en identificar los pacientes con sospecha de CLD, pudiendo planificar la cirugía y un equipo quirúrgico experimentado.

ABSTRACT Background: The risk factors (RF) for difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy (DLC) have been identified in many observational studies. Objective: The aim of this study is to identify the preoperative RF for DLC in a secondary care public hospital. Material and methods: We conducted a prospective cross-sectional cohort study of patients > 18 years undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy between January and December 2019. The following variables were analyzed: age, sex, body mass index (BMI), cholelithiasis, acute pancreatitis, acute or chronic cholecystitis, Mirizzi syndrome, ERCP within the previous month, episodes of biliary colic in the last month, presence of at least one colic within one week before surgery, white blood cell count, liver enzymes, total bilirubin, preoperative ultrasound and history of upper abdomen surgery. Results: The rate of DLC was 47.5%. Conversion rate to conventional surgery was 11.25% and 100% were categorized as DLC. The RF for DLC included male sex (OR, 4.50; 95% CI,1.60-12.62; p = 0.004), colic within 1 week before surgery (OR, 7.17; 95% CI,1.89-27.23; p = 0.004), gallbladder wall thickening (OR, 4.90; 95% CI,1.90-12.70; p = 0.001), edema around the gallbladder (OR, 7.14; 95% CI, 1.45-35.13; p = 0.016), hidrops gallbladder (OR, 4.94; 95% CI,1.44-16.88; p = 0.011) and previous surgeries (OR, 4.38; 95% CI, 1.27-15.10; p = 0.001). On multivariate analysis, male sex and previous surgery were associated with higher risk of DLC (OR, 6.63; 95% CI,1.75-25.08; p = 0.005; and OR, 11.70, 95% CI,1.48-92.37; p = 0.020, respectively). Conclusion: Efforts should focus on identifying patients with suspicion of DLC to plan surgery with an experienced surgical team.

Sex Disparities in the Presentation of Gallbladder Disease.

INTRODUCTION: Although gallbladder disease is more common in women, there is a trend toward more complicated cases in male patients. METHODS: All cholecystectomies captured by the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database for the year 2016 were reviewed. This encompassed 38 736 records. Records were reviewed for age, sex, procedure performed, operative time, postoperative diagnosis, functional status, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class, preoperative lab values (total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, white blood cell count, and aspartate aminotransferase. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were conducted. RESULTS: Male patients are more likely to undergo cholecystectomy for a diagnosis of cholecystitis, gallstone pancreatitis, or cholangitis than women who are more likely to carry a diagnosis of biliary dyskinesia. The average operative time increases for both sexes as the patients become older. The average operative time is higher for men than women in all age groups and the variance becomes greater as the patients become older. Age, sex, postoperative diagnosis, ASA class, and functional status were all independently significant in predicting operative time. There was no difference in need for cholangiogram between the sexes. Female patients were more likely to have their cholecystectomy completed laparoscopically and they were more likely to have their surgery performed as an outpatient. CONCLUSION: These data show that women were more likely to present with uncomplicated gallbladder disease, while men were more likely to present with complicated gallbladder disease. This suggests that male patients present at a more advanced stage of disease.

Comparison of palonosetron with combined palonosetron and midazolam for preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is an undesirable complication in patients undergoing general anesthesia. Combination therapy via different mechanisms of action for antiemetic prophylaxis has been warranted for effective treatment of PONV. This study was designed to compare the prophylactic antiemetic effect between midazolam combined with palonosetron (group MP) and palonosetron alone (group P) after laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgeries. METHODS: A prospective randomized controlled trial was investigated in non-smoking female. Eighty-eight patients were randomly divided into 2 groups with 44 patients each. Group MP received 0.05 mg/kg of midazolam intravenously before induction of anesthesia whereas group P received the same volume of normal saline. Immediately after anesthetic induction, 0.075 mg of palonosetron was administered to both the groups. The incidence and severity of PONV were assessed during 2 time intervals (0-2 hours, 2-24 hours), postoperatively. RESULTS: The incidence of PONV during 24 hours after surgery was lower in group MP as compared to group P. There was also a significant difference in the use of rescue antiemetics. The severity of nausea was significantly lower in group MP as compared to group P, in the initial 2 hours after surgery. The incidence of side effects was similar between the 2 groups. CONCLUSION: In the prevention of PONV, midazolam combined with palonosetron, administered during induction of anesthesia was more effective as compared to palonosetron alone.

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy for Gallbladder Dysfunction and Polyps: Incidence and Follow up.

AIM: This study aims to evaluate the incidence, indications, management, and long term follow up of cholecystectomy in patients with no gallstones, other than acalculous acute cholecystitis. METHODS: Prospectively collected data of 5675 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) over 28 years was extracted and analyzed. Patients with biliary symptoms, no stones on ultrasound scans and abnormal hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scans, and those with confirmed gallbladder polyps (GBP) were included. RESULTS: Two percent of cholecystectomies were performed in patients with acalculous pathology [1.3% functional gallbladder disorder (FGBD) and 0.7% GBP]. The 114 patients were younger, had lower American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, and had fewer previous biliary admissions than those with gallstones (5560). The clinical presentations of FGBD were chronic biliary symptoms (93.1%) and acute biliary pain (6.9%). GBP patients presented with chronic biliary symptoms. LC in 98.6% FGBD and 92.8% GBP were significantly easier than those for gall stones (P < 0.0001). They were significantly (P < 0.0001 FGBD and P < 0.001 GBP) less likely to have adhesions to the gallbladder. This ease was reflected in shorter operation times and lower utilization of abdominal drains. Polyp numbers ranged from 1 to 30 and sizes from 1 mm to 11 mm. No malignant polyps were encountered. In 95.8% FGBD and 95% GBP, patients had a good symptomatic response to LC. CONCLUSIONS: FGBD and GBP are uncommon in patients undergoing LC. FGBD should be considered during evaluation of right upper quadrant pain with no gall stones. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy may be considered as it achieves long term symptomatic relief in most patients with FGBD and GBP.

Outcomes Following Cholecystectomy on a Service Designed to Maximize Chief Resident Entrustment.

BACKGROUND: The chief resident service provides surgical trainees in their final year of training the opportunity to maximize responsibility, continuity, and decision-making. Although supervised, chief residents operate according to personal preferences instead of adapting to their attendings' preferences. We hypothesized that outcomes following cholecystectomy are equivalent between the chief resident service and standard academic services. METHODS: We matched adults undergoing cholecystectomy from 07/2016-06/2019 on the chief resident service to two standard academic service patients based on operative indication and age. We compared demographics, operative details, and 30-d complications. RESULTS: This study included 186 patients undergoing cholecystectomy. Body mass index (32.4 versus 32.0, P = 0.49) and Charlson comorbidity index (0.9 versus 1.4, P = 0.16) were similar between chief resident and standard academic services, respectively. Operative approach was similar (95.2% laparoscopic on chief resident service versus 94.4% on standard service), but residents on the chief resident service performed cholangiograms more often (48.4% versus 22.6%, P < 0.01) and averaged longer operative times during laparoscopic cholecystectomy with cholangiogram (146±28 versus 85±22 min, P < 0.01) and without (94±31 versus 76±35 min, P < 0.01) compared with standard academic services, respectively. 30-d complication rates were similar (5.2% chief resident versus 5.0% standard, P = 0.95). No patients suffered bile leak, bile duct injury, or reoperation. Emergency Department visits were similar (12.1% chief resident versus 7.4% standard, P = 0.32); readmissions were less frequent on the chief resident service (0.0% versus 5.0% standard, P = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS: With appropriate supervision, chief residents provide safe care for patients undergoing cholecystectomy while directing medical decisions and practicing according to their preferences.

Day case laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Identifying patients for a 'COVID-Cold' isolated day-case unit during the pandemic.

BACKGROUND: The UK practice of laparoscopic cholecystectomy has reduced during the COVID-19 pandemic due to cancellation of non-urgent operations. Isolated day-case units have been recommended as 'COVID-cold' operating sites to resume surgical procedures. This study aims to identify patients suitable for day case laparoscopic cholecystectomy (DCLC) at isolated units by investigating patient factors and unexpected admission. METHOD: Retrospective analysis of 327 patients undergoing DCLC between January and December 2018 at Ysbyty Gwynedd (District General Hospital; YG) and Llandudno General Hospital (isolated unit; LLGH), North Wales, UK. RESULTS: The results showed that 100% of DCLCs in LLGH were successful; 71.4% of elective DCLCs were successful at YG. Increasing age (p = 0.004), BMI (p = 0.01), ASA Score (p = 0.006), previous ERCP (p = 0.05), imaging suggesting cholecystitis (p = 0.003) and thick-walled gallbladder (p = 0.04) were significantly associated with failed DCLC on univariate analysis. Factors retaining significance (OR, 95% CI) after multiple regression include BMI (1.82, 1.05-3.16; p = 0.034), imaging suggesting cholecystitis (4.42, 1.72-11.38; p = 0.002) and previous ERCP (5.25, 1.53-18.00; p = 0.008). Postoperative complications are comparable in BMI <35kg/m2 and 35-39.9kg/m2. CONCLUSIONS: Current patient selection for isolated day unit is effective in ensuring safe discharge and could be further developed with greater consideration for patients with BMI 35-39.9kg/m2. As surgical services return, this helps identify patients suitable for laparoscopic cholecystectomy at isolated COVID-free day units.

Cholecystectomy Outcomes in the Veterans Affairs Surgical Quality Improvement Program (2006-2017).

Background: Cholecystectomy trends and outcomes have been reported extensively in the private sector. Despite being one of the most common procedures performed in the United States, there is a paucity of reports on the trends and outcomes of laparoscopic and open cholecystectomy in the veteran population. Materials and Methods: Veterans who underwent laparoscopic or open cholecystectomy from 2006 to 2017 were identified using current procedural terminology codes from the Veterans Affairs Surgical Quality Improvement Program (VASQIP) database. Multivariable analyses were used to compare laparoscopic and open outcomes. The primary outcome was mortality, and secondary outcomes were postoperative complications and length of stay (LOS). Results: In the VASQIP database, 53,901 patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy and 8011 patients underwent open cholecystectomy during the study period. The laparoscopic approach increased from 82.0% (2006-2008) to 91.9% (2015-2017). Postoperatively, the open group had a significantly higher morbidity rate (15.4% versus 3.8%, P < .001). The 30-day mortality rate and mean LOS were also significantly higher in the open cholecystectomy group (P < .001). Earlier year of operation, diabetes diagnosis, and open approach significantly increased the likelihood of postoperative morbidity (P < .05). Conclusions: Similar to the private sector, minimally invasive cholecystectomy in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has increased over the last two decades. Diabetes was present in a significant percentage of the veteran population and was a predictor of all postoperative complications. Finally, the clinical outcomes in the VHA are comparable with those documented in the private sector.

Bilateral Erector Spinae Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: Erector spinae plane (ESP) block is a novel regional anesthetic technique. Its application for postoperative analgesia has been increasing since 2016; however, its effectiveness remains uncertain and varies according to the type of surgery. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the analgesic efficacy of ESP block in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. METHODS: Literature searches of electronic databases and manual searches up to June 1, 2020 were performed. Review Manager Version 5.3 was used for pooled estimates. We included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in this meta-analysis. The random-effects meta-analysis model was used, and metaregression was applied when appropriate. RESULTS: A total of five RCTs consisting of 250 patients were included (124 in the ESP block group vs. 126 in the control group). Bilateral ESP block showed a significant reduction in postoperative intravenous opioid consumption reported up to 24 hours after surgery (mean difference [MD] = -4.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] [-5.50 to -3.42], P < 0.001) and in the time to first rescue analgesic (MD = 73.27 minutes, 95% CI [50.39 to 96.15], P < 0.001). According to the results of four studies, the postoperative pain score was lower in the ESP group compared with the control group at both rest and movement. There were no differences between the two groups as concerns nausea (odds ratio [OR] = 0.45, 95% CI [0.13 to 1.52], P = 0.20) and vomiting (OR = 0.37, 95% CI [0.10 to 1.35], P = 0.13). No block-related complications were noted. CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis showed that bilateral ultrasound-guided ESP block could be considered as an effective option to reduce opioid consumption and the time to first rescue analgesic and seems to be also a safe technique in adults undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Risk factors for 30-day readmission and indication for ERCP following laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a retrospective NSQIP cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is one of the safest, most commonly performed surgical procedures, but postoperative complications including bile leak, retained stone, cholangitis, and gallstone pancreatitis following LC occur in up to 2.6% of cases and may require readmission with possible endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) intervention. There is a paucity of literature on factors predictive of need for ERCP following LC. The goal of this study is to describe the prevalence and risk factors for readmission with indication for ERCP. METHODS: We queried the ACS/NSQIP 2012-2017 Participant User Files for patients who underwent LC. Patient demographics, comorbidities, operative characteristics, and postoperative outcomes were evaluated. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for readmission with indication for ERCP intervention. RESULTS: Of 275,570 patients, 11,010 (4.00%) were readmitted within the 30-day postoperative period. Among these, 930 (8.44%) were admitted with indication for ERCP intervention. On multivariate regression, readmissions were more likely in older patients, inpatients, and patients with baseline comorbidities, acute preoperative morbidity, and those discharged to care facilities. The use of intraoperative cholangiogram was associated with lower odds of readmission. Less than 10% of readmitted patients had an indication for ERCP. Those who were readmitted with an indication for ERCP were more likely to have undergone emergency surgery, experienced longer operative times, and had elevated preoperative LFTs or gallstone pancreatitis prior to surgery. The risk of 30-day mortality was significantly higher among patients who experienced any complications after their surgery (OR 13.03, 95% CI 10.57-16.07, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Older patients, patients with greater preoperative morbidity, and those discharged to care facilities were more likely to be readmitted for any reason following laparoscopic cholecystectomy, whereas patients with evidence of complicated gallstone disease were more likely to be readmitted with an indication for ERCP, even when controlling for the use of intraoperative cholangiogram. Initiatives aimed at reducing readmission with indication for ERCP should focus on these patient subgroups.

The Impact of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy on 30-Day Readmission Rate for Acute Cholangitis Patients: A Single-Center Study.

OBJECTIVES: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) following acute gallstone cholangitis reduces the recurrence of biliary symptoms; however, the timing of LC has not been determined yet. The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of performing LC during admission on the 30-day readmission rate. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of acute gallstone cholangitis patients who underwent endoscopic clearance (EC) of the bile duct through endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography between April 2013 and May 2018. Patients were classified into two groups: EC only group and EC followed by LC during admission (EC + LC) group. The primary outcome was the 30-day readmission rate. RESULTS: A total of 95 patients with acute cholangitis were included in the analysis. Of these patients, 35 patients (36.8%) underwent LC during admission. The 30-day readmission rate was significantly lower in the EC + LC group compared to the EC group (2.9% vs. 26.7%, P 0.003). In a multivariate regression analysis, patients who underwent LC during admission had 90% lower odds of readmission within 30 days compared to patients who did not (OR 0.1, 95% CI (0.01-0.9), P 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Performing laparoscopic cholecystectomy during admission for acute gallstone cholangitis patients following endoscopic clearance of the bile duct significantly reduced the 30-day readmission rate without affecting the length of stay.

Indocyanine green does not decrease the need for bail-out operation in an acute care surgery population.

BACKGROUND: The use of indocyanine green during laparoscopic cholecystectomy has been postulated to help to define anatomy. Studies have not specifically evaluated patients with acute cholecystitis. We sought to assess whether use of indocyanine green can decrease the rate of bail-out operation (subtotal cholecystectomy or conversion to an open operation) in an acute care surgery population where acute cholecystitis is more frequent. METHODS: Using a retrospective cohort design, we examined all inpatient cholecystectomies performed by the acute care surgery service under urgent or semiurgent (biliary colic as the presentation in the emergency room) conditions at a single institution from 7/1/18 to 6/30/19 during which indocyanine green was available for use at the surgeon's discretion. RESULTS: A total of 198 patients were included in the analysis. Demographic variables were similar in groups receiving indocyanine green versus not. Pathology confirmed acute cholecystitis was present in 96 of 198 (48.5%) patients; of those, 55 (57.2%) received indocyanine green. Indocyanine green did not change the rate of bail-out operation between patients who received indocyanine green and those who did not (6.7% vs 4.3%, P = .468). No significant differences in complications were observed. Bail-out operation was more likely in cases of acute cholecystitis (9.4%) versus nonacute cholecystitis (2.0%) (odds ratio = 5.172, P = .039). In patients with acute cholecystitis, indocyanine green did not change the rate of bail-out operation (indocyanine green: 12.7% vs no indocyanine green: 4.9%, P = .293). CONCLUSION: This is the first series looking at the use of indocyanine green specifically in an acute care surgery population. Indocyanine green did not decrease operative time or need for a bail-out operation in acute cholecystitis. Further study is needed to determine whether indocyanine green use is justified in this population.

Risk of gallstone-related complications in necrotizing pancreatitis patients treated with a step-up approach: The experience of two tertiary care centers.

BACKGROUND: A minimally invasive step-up approach to necrotizing biliary pancreatitis often requires multiple interventions, delaying cholecystectomy. The risk of gallstone-related complications during this time interval is unknown, as is the feasibility and safety of cholecystectomy after minimally invasive step-up treatment. In this paper, we analyzed both. METHODS: Necrotizing pancreatitis patients treated with a minimally invasive step-up approach who underwent interval cholecystectomy at 2 tertiary care centers between 2014 and 2019 were included. Gallstone-related complications prior to cholecystectomy were examined, as were surgical approaches to cholecystectomy and complications. Necrotizing pancreatitis patients treated without mechanical intervention were also examined. RESULTS: Seven of 31 patients developed gallstone-related complications between minimally invasive step-up treatment initiation and cholecystectomy. One patient developed biliary colic. Six patients developed acute cholecystitis. Two of these patients also developed choledocholithiasis, and 1 developed cholangitis, all requiring endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Cholecystectomy was performed laparoscopically in 27 of 31 patients. One patient required open conversion, and 3 patients underwent planned cholecystectomy during another open operation. Four patients developed postoperative complications. Two of 14 necrotizing pancreatitis patients treated without mechanical intervention developed recurrent pancreatitis while awaiting cholecystectomy. CONCLUSION: Over 20% of necrotizing pancreatitis patients treated by a minimally invasive step-up approach developed gallstone-related complications while awaiting cholecystectomy. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is feasible and safe in the great majority of necrotizing pancreatitis patients treated by a minimally invasive step-up approach.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis: is the surgery still safe beyond the 7-day barrier? A multicentric observational study.

Timing for early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ELC) in patients with acute calculous cholecystitis (ACC) is still controversial. This study assesses ELC for ACC with delayed presentation, according to hospital volume. Multicentric retrospective analysis of 1868 ELC. Patients were classified into two groups according to the timing of surgery from clinical onset and centre volume. Group 1 (G1) within the first 7 days, group 2 (G2) beyond that. Then centres were classified in low volume centres (LVC) and higher volume centres (HVC) according to the number of ELC performed per year. Overall, G2 showed increased conversion rate (17.7% vs 10.7%; p = 0.004), intraoperative complications (7.3% vs 2.9%; p = 0.001); postoperative haemorrhage (3.6% vs 0.8%; p < 0.001), infections (16.6% vs 9.3%; p = 0.003) and global complications (27.6% vs 19.8%; p = 0.011). HVC in comparison with LVC presented decreased conversion rate (17.1% vs 7.6%; p < 0.001), intraoperative bleeding (2.1% vs 1%; p = 0.047), postoperative bile leakage (4.1% vs 2.1%; p = 0.011), infectious (13.7% vs 7.5%; p < 0.001) and global complications (25.7% vs 17.1%; p < 0.001). HVC did not show an increase in any of the above-mentioned outcomes when G1 and G2 were compared. ELC must be indicated cautiously in patients with ACC and more than 1 week of symptom duration. It should be performed in centres with sufficient experience in the management of this disease.

Is Specialisation Needed in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy? A Retrospective Cohort Study of 5122 Patients.

Background: Gallstone disease is a common problem and laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is a common elective procedure. This operation was performed by a general surgeon, colorectal surgeons, breast and vascular surgeons according to the largest UK's audit (CholeS study). Objectives: To compare the outcomes of laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed by a specialist upper gastrointestinal (UGI) surgeon to that of CholeS and large international studies. Our hypothesis is: UGI specialist is producing better outcomes for LC patients. Methods: All patient who underwent LC between 1999 and 2019 at one hospital by an UGI consultant and 2014-2019 at another hospital by another UGI consultant surgeon were included. The inclusion criteria were LC performed by UGI surgeon. Lost to follow up, procedures done by trainees and gallbladder cancer patients were excluded. The outcome measures of bile leak, bile duct injuries, bleeding, infectious complications, bowel injuries, vascular injuries and pseudoaneurysms, neuralgia, port site hernia, mesenteric haematoma, 30-day mortality and conversion to open were reported. Statistical tests were used to assess the significant differences, the confidence interval was 95% and the p-value was taken as 0.05. Results: Two UGI specialists performed 5122 LC, 4396 (86%) were female and 715 (14%) male. The age was 13-93 year (median of 48 years). 3681 (72 %) was done as a day surgery case. 1431(28%) as an inpatient and 287 (5.6%) emergency LC. There was no death in the 30 days periods of surgery, 8 (0.15%) biliary leak from the duct of Luschka, 4 (0.19%) common bile duct (CBD) injuries, 9(0.02%) conversions and 17(0.33%) procedures were abandoned. There were significant differences in the above complications between our study and the CholeS report. Conclusions: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is associated with acceptable outcomes, low risk of bile duct injury and no mortality when performed by a specialist upper GI surgeon.

Efficacy and safety of different doses of ropivacaine for laparoscopy-assisted infiltration analgesia in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A prospective randomized control trial.

BACKGROUND: Wound infiltration analgesia provides effective postoperative pain control in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). However, the efficacy and safety of wound infiltration with different doses of ropivacaine is not well defined. This study investigated the analgesic effects and pharmacokinetic profile of varying concentrations of ropivacaine at port sites under laparoscopy assistance. METHODS: In this randomized, double-blinded study, 132 patients were assigned to 4 groups: Group H: in which patients were infiltrated with 0.75% ropivacaine; Group M: 0.5% ropivacaine; Group L: 0.2% ropivacaine; and Group C: 0.9% normal saline only. The primary outcome was pain intensity estimated using numeric rating scale (NRS) at discharging from PACU and at 4 hours, 6 hours, 8 hours, and 24 hours after infiltration. Secondary outcomes included plasma concentrations of ropivacaine at 30 minutes after wound infiltration, rescue analgesia requirements after surgery, perioperative vital signs changes, and side effects. RESULTS: The NRS in Group C was significantly higher at rest, and when coughing upon leaving PACU and at 4 hours, 6 hours, 8 hours, and 24 hours after infiltration (P < .05) and rescue analgesic consumption was significantly higher. Notably, these parameters were not significantly different between Groups H, Group M and Group L (P > .05). Intra-operative consumption of sevoflurane and remifentanil, HR at skin incision and MAP at skin incision, as well as 5 minutes after skin incision were significantly higher in Group C than in the other 3 groups (P < .01). In contrast, these parameters were not significantly different between Groups H, Group M and Group L (P > .05). The concentration of ropivacaine at 30 minutes after infiltration in Group H was significantly higher than that of Group L and Group M (P < .05). No significant differences were observed in the occurrence of side effects among the 4 groups (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopy-assisted wound infiltration with ropivacaine successfully decreases pain intensity in patients undergoing LC regardless of the doses used. Infiltration with higher doses results in higher plasma concentrations, but below the systematic toxicity threshold.

Cost difference of enhanced recovery after surgery pathway vs. Conventional care In Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy.

BACKGROUND: Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is a perioperative bundle aimed to reduce surgical stress. Significant reductions in length of hospital stay and associated costs have been reported in multiple studies in all surgical specialties. Purpose of the study was to compare the effect of Enhanced recovery protocols vs. conventional care on perioperative length of hospital stay and cost per patient in a government funded hospital. METHODS: this randomized controlled trial was conducted in the department of General Surgery, unit B, Lady reading hospital, Peshawar from April to December 2018. One hundred and fifty patients were selected based on consecutive sampling. Random allocation into two groups of 75 (ERAS vs Conventional) was done based on computer generated numbers. Length of hospital stay and total direct costs were calculated. Frequency of Surgical site infections, readmissions and mortality was also recorded. Patient reported outcomes were recorded by Surgical Recovery Scale SRS. RESULTS: Patients in the Enhanced recovery group showed a significant reduction in length of hospital stay 28.9 hours in ERAS group vs 40.5 hours in Conventional care group (p<0.001). Total per patient cost was reduced in the ERAS group PKR 6804 in comparison to the conventional care PKR 7682 (p<0.001). Patient reported outcomes measured on Surgical Recovery Scale SRS on discharge, day 3 of discharge and day 10 of discharge showed no significant difference between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Enhanced recovery protocols demonstrated a reduction in length of perioperative hospital stay and total cost despite similar post discharge recovery scores on Surgical Recovery Scale SRS and no increase in readmissions.

Development and practice of laparoscopic surgery in a Nigerian tertiary hospital.

BACKGROUND: For the benefits of less postoperative pain, early recovery and discharge, and better cosmesis, laparoscopic surgery is rapidly gaining acceptance amongst surgeons as a better alternative to traditional open procedures. In January 2015, bookings for laparoscopic surgery became a more regular feature on our operation list. AIMS: We reported the indications, management outcome, and challenges in patients who had laparoscopic surgery in our institution. This is to document the trends in our surgical practice. METHODOLOGY: This is a descriptive study of 137 patients who had laparoscopic surgery for general surgical indications in our institution over a period of 5 years. Patients data as collected from the records department were evaluated for demographic characteristics, medical comorbidities, type of procedures done, and perioperative outcome. Data analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). RESULTS: A total of 137 Patients had laparoscopic general surgery between January 2015 and December 2019. There were 48 males and 89 females with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.9. The mean age of the patients was 38.8 ± 3.4 years (range 16-87 years). Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (35%) and laparoscopic appendicectomy (29.9%) were the most common procedures performed. Five (3.7%) cases were converted to open surgery. Superficial surgical site infection (5.8%) following laparoscopic appendicectomy was the most common postoperative complication. There was no 30-day postoperative mortality. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic surgery is safe and can be applied to wide variety of general surgical conditions in developing countries. Minimal postoperative morbidity of laparoscopy is a major benefit to the patients.