Analysis of factors for conversion of laparoscopic to open cholecystectomy: a prospective study of 703 patients with acute cholecystitis

Aims: Conversions to open surgery during laparoscopic cholecystectomy are performed in 20% of patients with acute cholecystitis, and are associated with increased morbidity and costs. The aim of this study was to identify predictive factors for conversion and to evaluate morbidity, mortality and hospital stay. Methods: A prospective cohort of patients admitted to the emergency department with acute cholecystitis. We evaluated the statistical significance of the demographic, clinical, biochemical, imaging and surgical factors at admission, associated with conversion to open surgery using a univariate model. The associated factors evaluated during initial analysis were then included in a multivariate analysis. Finally a comparative analysis was made of the morbidity and mortality in both models. Results: A total of 703 patients were included. Conversion rate was 13.8%. Univariate analysis identified as factors: male gender, previous ERCP, leucocytes > 12,000 mm(3), age > 70 years, hypertension, jaundice, cholangitis, total bilirubin > 2 mg/dl, ASA III-IV, gallbladder wall enlargement and choledocholithiasis. Logistic regression identified as predictive factors: previous ERCP, leucocytes, age > 70 years and male gender. Converted patients had a higher morbidity rate, further operations and longer hospital stays (P < .001). No difference was seen in mortality. Discussion: It is important to recognise patients with a higher risk of conversion in order to optimise planning and performing of the surgical procedure, and to decrease the morbidity associated with laparotomy, given that the independent factors identified are not modifiable. (C) 2010 AEC. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L. All rights reserved.