Abstract. This study reviewed the results of laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis in the elderly. Among 557 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy, 70 (12.6%) had a clinical diagnosis of acute cholecystitis confirmed by ultrasonography. There were 28 men and 42 women with a mean age of 59.9 years (range 20–87 years). Thirty patients ≥ 65 years of age were compared to 40 patients < 65 years old. Elderly patients had a higher female predominance (
p < 0.05), a higher incidence of intercurrent diseases ( p < 0.05), and a higher serum urea level ( p < 0.001). The proportions of patients who underwent early or delayed surgery were comparable. There was no difference in operation time, postoperative analgesic requirements, or complications. Elderly patients, however, had a significantly higher conversion rate (23.3% versus 2.5%; p < 0.05). Even after successful laparoscopic cholecystectomy, there was a longer delay before ambulation ( p < 0.05) and resumption of normal diet ( p = 0.08) with resulting prolonged postoperative ( p = 0.08) and total hospital stay ( p < 0.05). Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a safe, effective treatment for acute cholecystitis in the elderly. When compared to younger patients, elderly patients are at greater risk for conversion, delayed recovery, and prolonged hospital stay.
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Lo, CM., Lai, E., Fan, ST. et al. Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy for Acute Cholecystitis in the Elderly. World J. Surg. 20, 983–987 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/s002689900148
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s002689900148