Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: the procedure of choice for gallbladder disease.

In an attempt to decrease patient discomfort and hasten recovery after gallbladder surgery, a laparoscopic approach to cholecystectomy has been developed. The procedure decreases hospital stay and affords a rapid return to normal activities. A large experience with laparoscopic cholecystectomy is rapidly accumulating. Our first 100 laparoscopic cholecystectomies are reviewed. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is now the procedure of choice for the treatment of gallbladder disease.