Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (hybrid) cholecystectomy: The Dhillon technique.

INTRODUCTION

This study presents a novel technique to perform cholecystectomy and assess its outcome and feasibility.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study presents the novel Dhillon technique and experience of hybrid natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) technique, that is, laparoscopic-assisted transvaginal cholecystectomy. We have evaluated the outcomes in terms of cosmesis, post-operative recovery and analgesic requirement. The study included 257 patients who underwent hybrid NOTES cholecystectomy at single tertiary hospital. The biographical data, surgical time, pain score on day 1 and 2, need of analgesia, intra- and post-operative complication and aesthetic assessment on day 7 were recorded.

RESULTS

Out of a total of 1100 cases of laparoscopic cholecystectomy 257 had hybrid NOTES cholecystectomy. Only two of these cases were converted to standard laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The mean operative time was 31.5 ± 5.1 (25-40) min. None of the patients had any complication or biliary leakage. The mean pain score on day 1 and 2 was 3.6 ± 0.4 (3-4) and 1.0 ± 0.06 (1-2), respectively. The mean paracetamol (analgesic) dose requirement was 6.1 ± 0.6 (4-6.9) g. The aesthetic score was excellent in all the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Using the present technique of hybrid NOTES is beneficial in terms of cosmetic results, lesser need of analgesic and shorter hospital stay.