Cholecystectomy as Part of Cytoreductive Surgery for Advanced Ovarian Cancer: Perioperative Outcomes

Background/Aim: To assess the perioperative outcomes of cholecystectomy in cytoreductive procedures for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Patients and Methods: Prospectively collected perioperative data of patients that underwent cytoreduction for advanced EOC, between 2014 and 2018, were analysed. Patients were divided in two groups on the basis of whether cholecystectomy was performed. Results: A total of 144 patients with stage IIIC/IV EOC were included. Cholecystectomy was performed in 22 (15.3%) patients. Those who underwent cholecystectomy more likely required diaphragmatic peritonectomy, splenectomy, lesser omentectomy, excision of disease from the porta hepatis and liver's capsule (p<0.001). There was no difference in the cytoreductive outcomes (complete or optimal) and the rate of grade 3-5 complications between the two groups (p=0.10 & p=0.06, respectively). No direct complications related to cholecystectomy were observed. Conclusion: A significant percentage of patients with advanced EOC require cholecystectomy. Gynecologic oncologists should embrace the opportunity to develop advanced surgical skills including cholecystectomy.