Tarik Abdel Azeez1, Khaled M Mahran. 1. Department of Surgery, El-Minia University, School of Medicine, El-Minia, Egypt. taahmad@yahoo.com
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS: The aim of the study is to evaluate transumbilical laparoscopic cholecystectomy as a minimally invasive technique for removal of the gallbladder. METHODOLOGY: Fifty patients were included in the study. All patients underwent transumbilical removal of the gallbladder through 3 incisions of 5mm size. An ultrasonically activated shear was used for sealing and dividing the cystic duct and artery. A 5mm camera with 30 degrees angle was used. Patient characteristics and outcomes were reviewed. RESULTS: All cases were accomplished successfully. The operative time ranged from 30-85 minutes. All patients were discharged on the following day. The postoperative wound was minimal and well tolerated by patients. Postoperative pain was minimal to moderate as shown on a pain scale. CONCLUSIONS: Transumbilical laparoscopic cholecystectomy has the potential advantages of reduced postoperative pain and reduced port-site complications. Careful attention to closure can lead to virtually "scarless" surgery without any further effect on the total cost of the procedure.
BACKGROUND/AIMS: The aim of the study is to evaluate transumbilical laparoscopic cholecystectomy as a minimally invasive technique for removal of the gallbladder. METHODOLOGY: Fifty patients were included in the study. All patients underwent transumbilical removal of the gallbladder through 3 incisions of 5mm size. An ultrasonically activated shear was used for sealing and dividing the cystic duct and artery. A 5mm camera with 30 degrees angle was used. Patient characteristics and outcomes were reviewed. RESULTS: All cases were accomplished successfully. The operative time ranged from 30-85 minutes. All patients were discharged on the following day. The postoperative wound was minimal and well tolerated by patients. Postoperative pain was minimal to moderate as shown on a pain scale. CONCLUSIONS: Transumbilical laparoscopic cholecystectomy has the potential advantages of reduced postoperative pain and reduced port-site complications. Careful attention to closure can lead to virtually "scarless" surgery without any further effect on the total cost of the procedure.