Controversies in laparoscopic cholecystectomy: contraindications, cholangiography, pregnancy and avoidance of complications.

The rapid adoption of laparoscopic cholecystectomy by the world of general surgery is remarkable. The experience of the first five years has done much to promote the safety and efficacy of this important procedure. As experience continues to accumulate, there will be more data to establish the contraindications, the proper role of cholangiography and the best means of avoiding complications. Improved tools and technical aids will also improve surgeons' ability to safely perform this procedure for their patients.