Reasons for conversion of laparoscopic cholecystectomy to open cholecystectomy

Introduction. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LCH) is a standard surgical technique performed in cholecystolithiasis. The advantages of this procedure are: short time hospitalization and faster recovery, minimalpost-operative pain and improved cosmetic results. Unfortunately, in some cases, conversion of LCH to open cholecystectomy is required. Introduction. The aim of our study was to investigate reasons for conversion from laparoscopic to open cholecystectomy. We evaluated a percentage of procedures performed as a laparoscopic or classic surgery. Materials and methods. The study is based on procedures performed in the General Surgical Ward of Bieganski Hospital, Lodz, from 1994 to 2004. Results. During this time 4038 cholecystectomies were carried out, including 2819 (69,8%) laparoscopic and 1219 (30,2%) open procedures. 139 cases of LCH required conversion to open surgery. The average conversion rate was 4,93%,and fluctuated from 3,1% to 7,4% depending on the year. The main reasons for conversion were intraperitonealadhesions(42,44%)and acute inflammation of the gallbladder (30,53%). Conclusions. The result is similar to data reported by other authors. Increase in the number of conversions is due to the fact that patients qualified for LCH included those with complicated cholecystitis. (Clin. Exp. Med. Lett. 2006; 47(2):129-133)

Keywords: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, open cholecystectomy, conversion