Risk factors and mitigating measures associated with bile duct injury during cholecystectomy: meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND

Cholecystectomy is a common procedure with a notable risk of iatrogenic bile duct injury. Understanding the factors contributing to bile duct injury and the effectiveness of preventative measures is crucial for improving surgical outcomes. This meta-analysis aimed to identify and synthesize high-quality evidence on risk factors and mitigating measures associated with bile duct injury after cholecystectomy.

METHODS

Following the PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases. Included studies reported on adult patients undergoing cholecystectomy with relevant risk factors for bile duct injury. Meta-analyses of unadjusted and adjusted risk estimates were conducted with a random-effects model to account for heterogeneity. The study period across all included studies spanned from 1989 to 2016.

RESULTS

The review included 31 studies comprising 6 513 599 cholecystectomies and 18 259 bile duct injuries. The primary risk factors identified were male sex (adjusted odds ratio 1.27, 95% confidence interval 1.13 to 1.39) and acute cholecystitis (adjusted odds ratio 1.74, 1.27 to 2.39). The critical view of safety was inconsistently documented and not statistically linked to reduced bile duct injury. Intraoperative cholangiogram's routine use did not show a statistically significant association with reduced incidence of bile duct injury (adjusted odds ratio 0.92, 0.70 to 1.23).

CONCLUSION

Male sex and acute cholecystitis significantly increase the risk of bile duct injury after cholecystectomy. Risk stratification for these patients before surgery would ultimately aid the shared decision-making consent process.