AIM: Scarcity of paediatric cholelithiasis limits the obtainable experience in paediatric laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LPC). We report minilaparotomy cholecystectomy (MLC) in children which may be a useful alternative to LPC avoiding the added cost of disposable laparoscopic equipment. METHODS: Nineteen cases underwent a retrograde MLC using a 2-4 cm transverse right upper quadrant incision. Various parameters were assessed. RESULTS: Mean age at presentation was 10.87 years, mean length of the incision 2.8 cm, mean operative time 36.5 min, mean analgesic requirement 2 days, mean time to feed/ mobilize 1 day each, and mean duration of hospital stay was 2.7 days. All had satisfactory cosmetic result without postoperative complications. CONCLUSIONS: MLC in children involves a small incision, excellent cosmetic scar and rapid postoperative recovery at relatively low cost. It is a good alternative to LPC.
AIM: Scarcity of paediatric cholelithiasis limits the obtainable experience in paediatric laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LPC). We report minilaparotomy cholecystectomy (MLC) in children which may be a useful alternative to LPC avoiding the added cost of disposable laparoscopic equipment. METHODS: Nineteen cases underwent a retrograde MLC using a 2-4 cm transverse right upper quadrant incision. Various parameters were assessed. RESULTS: Mean age at presentation was 10.87 years, mean length of the incision 2.8 cm, mean operative time 36.5 min, mean analgesic requirement 2 days, mean time to feed/ mobilize 1 day each, and mean duration of hospital stay was 2.7 days. All had satisfactory cosmetic result without postoperative complications. CONCLUSIONS: MLC in children involves a small incision, excellent cosmetic scar and rapid postoperative recovery at relatively low cost. It is a good alternative to LPC.