Comparison of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in obese and non-obese patients.

Results of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in obese and non-obese patients were analyzed prospectively. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed in 841 patients-179 obese (Group I) and 662 non-obese (Group II). Operative time averaged 73.1 minutes in Group I and 73.7 minutes in Group II. There were no statistically significant differences in the ability to perform cholangiography (99.4% Group I; 97.9% Group II), conversion rate (1.1% Group I; 1.5% Group II), or complications (4.5% Group I; 3.8% Group II). In Group I no pulmonary complications were noted, nor any cases of venous thromboembolic disease. Risk of laparoscopic cholecystectomy appears comparable in obese and non-obese patients. Based on historical comparisons, laparoscopic cholecystectomy may be safer than traditional cholecystectomy in obese patients.