Minilaparotomy cholecystectomy in children.

AIM

Scarcity of paediatric cholelithiasis limits the obtainable experience in paediatric laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LPC). We report minilaparotomy cholecystectomy (MLC) in children which may be a useful alternative to LPC avoiding the added cost of disposable laparoscopic equipment.

METHODS

Nineteen cases underwent a retrograde MLC using a 2-4 cm transverse right upper quadrant incision. Various parameters were assessed.

RESULTS

Mean age at presentation was 10.87 years, mean length of the incision 2.8 cm, mean operative time 36.5 min, mean analgesic requirement 2 days, mean time to feed/ mobilize 1 day each, and mean duration of hospital stay was 2.7 days. All had satisfactory cosmetic result without postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

MLC in children involves a small incision, excellent cosmetic scar and rapid postoperative recovery at relatively low cost. It is a good alternative to LPC.