Convalescence in the first week after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: results from a detailed questionnaire on morbidity and recovery of daily activities

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate postoperative morbidity and return to daily activities after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods: Thirty-five patients were asked to keep daily detailed structured diaries for 1 week.

Results: Half of the patients were discharged from hospital on the 1st postoperative day (POD1); another third were released on POD2. Distressing pain subsided on POD2, but disturbing pain occurred in 10% of the patients on POD5-7. On POD7, mild pain at rest appeared in 30% of the patients and when moving in 60% of them. Although pain was the most common complaint, the mean consumption of analgesics was low. Even though one-fifth of the patients felt nauseated on POD2-3, and one-seventh again as late as POD7, drinking and eating did not pose problems. At the end of the week, one-third of the subjects experienced slight disorders in night rest and vigilance. Moving and walking were disturbed in one-third of the patients, and bending over and lifting objects were relatively difficult for 60% of the patients on POD7. Thirty percent of the 21 patients who were employed reported that they were capable of returning to work on POD7.

Conclusion: To account for the variability in the rate of convalescence, the length of sick leave after laparoscopic cholecystectomy should be individualized.