Randomized clinical trial of open versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis

Background: The aim of this prospective trial was to determine whether surgical approach (open versus laparoscopic) had an impact on morbidity and postoperative recovery after cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis. Methods: Seventy patients who met the criteria for acute cholecystitis were randomized to open or laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The type of operation was unknown to the patient and all hospital staff involved in the postoperative care. Results. The two groups were similar with respect to demographic and clinical characteristics. There were no significant differences in rate of postoperative complications, pain score at discharge and sick leave. In eight patients a laparoscopic procedure was converted to open cholecystectomy. Median operating time was 90 (range 30-155) and 80 (range 50-170) min in the laparoscopic and open groups respectively (P = 0.040). The direct medical costs were equivalent in the two groups. Although median postoperative hospital stay was 2 days in each group, it was significantly shorter in the laparoscopic group (P = 0.011). Conclusion: Cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis can be performed by either laparoscopic or open techniques without any major clinically relevant differences in postoperative outcome. Both techniques offer low morbidity and rapid postoperative recovery.