The changing pattern of cholelithiasis in Accra.

One hundred and sixty-five cholecystectomies were performed in the 12 year period 1980-1991 Only 67 were performed in the first 10 year period but in the last 2 years (1990-1991), 98 patients underwent cholecystectomy. While patients with biliary tract disease occupied 0.4% of General Surgical beds in 1966-68 patients for cholecystectomy now occupy 1.5% of all General Surgical beds. The rising incidence of gall stone disease is the result of a genuine increase in the incidence as well as better diagnosis supported by the use of ultrasonography.