Our Summary

This research paper is about a common surgical procedure used to remove symptomatic gallstones, called Laparoscopic cholecystectomy. During this surgery, the gallbladder can sometimes tear and spill stones and bile, which is not ideal. To avoid this, surgeons often use a tool called an endobag to safely remove the gallbladder. This study looked at the effectiveness and cost of using a surgical glove as an endobag, compared to the commercially prepared endobags usually used. The research was done by looking at other studies from 1990 to 2017. The results indicated that the glove endobag is just as effective and is cheaper than the typical endobags.

FAQs

  1. What is a Laparoscopic cholecystectomy and why is it performed?
  2. What is an endobag and why is it used in Laparoscopic cholecystectomy?
  3. What were the findings of the research regarding the use of a surgical glove as an endobag compared to commercially prepared endobags?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing a laparoscopic cholecystectomy to ask their surgeon about using a surgical glove as an endobag for safely removing the gallbladder. This can help prevent any spillage of stones and bile during the procedure and may also be a cost-effective option. It is important to discuss all options with your surgeon to ensure the safest and most efficient outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic cholecystectomy include those with symptomatic gallstones causing pain, inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), blockage of the bile ducts, or complications such as pancreatitis or infection. Patients who have recurrent episodes of gallstone-related symptoms or have a high risk of developing complications from gallstones may also be recommended for this procedure. Additionally, patients who are fit for surgery and do not have any contraindications may be considered for laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Timeline

Before laparoscopic cholecystectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of gallstones such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as ultrasound or CT scan to confirm the presence of gallstones.
  3. Patient is advised by their healthcare provider to undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy to remove the gallbladder.

After laparoscopic cholecystectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes pre-operative preparations such as fasting and medical evaluations.
  2. Patient is admitted to the hospital on the day of the surgery.
  3. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is performed under general anesthesia, using small incisions and a laparoscope to remove the gallbladder.
  4. Patient typically stays in the hospital for 1-2 days post-surgery for monitoring and pain management.
  5. Patient is discharged home with instructions for post-operative care, including dietary restrictions and pain medication.
  6. Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for post-operative check-ups and monitoring of recovery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is laparoscopic cholecystectomy and why is it recommended for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this procedure?
  3. How long will the procedure take and what is the recovery time?
  4. Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight or is this a same-day procedure?
  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  6. How will my pain be managed after the surgery?
  7. Will I have any dietary restrictions or lifestyle changes to follow after the surgery?
  8. How often do complications, such as gallbladder spillage, occur during this procedure?
  9. Will an endobag be used during the surgery to prevent spillage of gallstones and bile?
  10. What are the costs associated with using a surgical glove as an endobag compared to a commercially prepared endobag?

Reference

Authors: Begum S, Khan MR, Gill RC. Journal: J Pak Med Assoc. 2019 Feb;69(Suppl 1)(1):S58-S61. PMID: 30697021