Our Summary

The research paper is about a study comparing two methods of gallbladder removal surgery: the conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CMLC), which is the current standard, and the single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC), which is gaining attention for better cosmetic results and less pain for patients.

The researchers analyzed data from 37 studies conducted between 2011 and 2021, involving a total of 4,521 patients. They evaluated several factors, such as complications during surgery, blood loss, operation time, the need to switch to open surgery, length of hospital stay, pain levels, cosmetic results, and the time taken to return to work.

The study found that SILC resulted in less pain six hours after surgery and better cosmetic outcomes one and six months after surgery. However, SILC took a longer time to perform than CMLC. There were no significant differences between the two methods in terms of complications during surgery, blood loss, the need to switch to open surgery, length of hospital stay, and the time taken to return to work.

The researchers concluded that SILC is a safe and practical method for gallbladder removal with the added benefits of less post-operative pain and better cosmetic results. However, the choice between the two methods would depend on the surgeon’s preference.

FAQs

  1. What are the two methods of gallbladder removal surgery discussed in the research paper?
  2. What were the main findings of the study comparing CMLC and SILC?
  3. Does the research paper recommend one method of gallbladder removal over the other?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic cholecystectomy is to discuss with their surgeon the different options available, such as single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) versus conventional multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CMLC). Patients should weigh the benefits of less post-operative pain and better cosmetic results with the potential longer surgical time of SILC. It’s important to have an open and informed discussion with the surgeon to choose the best option for the individual patient’s needs and preferences.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic cholecystectomy include those with symptomatic gallstones, gallbladder polyps, gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), or gallbladder cancer. Additionally, patients who are at a higher risk for complications from traditional open surgery due to factors such as obesity, older age, or underlying medical conditions may also be recommended for laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Timeline

Before laparoscopic cholecystectomy:

  • Patient experiences symptoms of gallbladder disease such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloating.
  • Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to confirm the presence of gallstones.
  • Patient consults with a surgeon to discuss the need for gallbladder removal surgery.
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to ensure they are fit for surgery.

After laparoscopic cholecystectomy:

  • Patient undergoes laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery, which involves making small incisions in the abdomen and inserting a laparoscope and other surgical instruments to remove the gallbladder.
  • Patient is monitored in the recovery room before being transferred to a hospital room.
  • Patient may experience pain, bloating, and discomfort in the abdomen following surgery.
  • Patient is discharged from the hospital within a day or two after surgery.
  • Patient is advised to rest at home and avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
  • Patient may experience improved symptoms of gallbladder disease and better quality of life after recovery from surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy, particularly with the single-incision method?
  2. How experienced are you in performing single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy compared to the conventional multi-port method?
  3. How long does the surgery typically take with each method?
  4. How soon after surgery can I expect to return to my normal activities with each method?
  5. Are there any specific criteria that would make me a better candidate for one method over the other?
  6. Can you provide me with more information on the cosmetic results and pain levels associated with each method based on your experience?
  7. Are there any long-term differences in outcomes between the two methods that I should be aware of?
  8. What is your recommendation for which method I should choose, and why?
  9. How often do you perform single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy compared to the conventional method?
  10. Are there any additional costs associated with choosing the single-incision method?

Reference

Authors: Rudiman R, Hanafi RV, Wijaya A. Journal: F1000Res. 2024 Nov 18;11:754. doi: 10.12688/f1000research.122102.2. eCollection 2022. PMID: 39931659