Case study: assessing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The GVHS experience.

This article describes the experience at the Greater Victoria Hospital Society of assessing the appropriateness of introducing laparoscopic cholecystectomy (lap chole) within the framework of an established technology assessment process. Lap chole promised to deliver cost savings; however, these could only be realized by capitalizing on the reduced length of stay by removing the surgical beds from service. A cautionary note is raised as to whether the increased use of lap chole in the population is appropriate.