Minilaparoscopic versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Since its introduction in 1987, the technique of cholecystectomy has continued to undergo evolution. Surgeons have reduced the port size and number or both to achieve improvement in postoperative pain control, rapid return to activity and better cosmetic results. Therefore, this study was done to compare the standard 4 port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) with the 3 port laparoscopic cholecystectomy using a 5 mm telescope instead of 10 mm telescope (mini laparoscopic cholecystectomy - MLC). Forty patients were randomised to each group. Mean operating time, intraoperative and postoperative complications, mean period to resume walking, eating and return to normal activities and mean hospital stay were similar in the two groups. The level of postoperative pain was significantly lower in the MLC group. Patients who underwent MLC required a significantly lower dose of analgesics. In conclusion mini laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a feasible and safe procedure with less postoperative pain and better cosmesis and without increased complications.