Is day-case laparoscopic cholecystectomy acceptable to patients? A 5-year study

Rapid recovery and mobilisation following laparoscopic cholecystectomy make it suitable for consideration as a day-case procedure. This study assesses the feasibility, in terms of safety and patient satisfaction. 136 patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy as a day-case over a 5 year period (1993-98) and were asked to complete a questionnaire in the postoperative p eriod, grading their postoperative symptoms, recovery and satisfaction. In the series two (1.5%) patients required conversion to open cholecystectomy. 12 (8.8%) patients were admitted immediately postoperatively, with a furth er four (2.9%) patients admitted after initially uneventful discharge. 57% of patients described pain as moderate or severe and 25% suffered severe na usea or actual vomiting. Despite this, 94% of patients were satisfied, find ing the procedure acceptable, and 77% indicated that they would opt for day case surgery again. This study supports the continuing practice of day-cas e laparoscopic cholecystectomy. No serious complication arose that would ha ve been avoided by overnight admission, however, some patients were subsequ ently admitted for symptom control.