Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a treatment option for gallbladder disease in children.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed safely in two children ages 7 and 15 years. Special considerations were required in the younger child because of the discrepancy between the length of the instruments and the size of the peritoneal cavity. Both children remained in hospital less than 24 hours and were able to resume normal diet and activity quickly. Pediatric surgeons with special training in laparoscopic surgery may want to use this treatment modality for children with biliary tract disease.