PROSPECTIVE ASSESSMENT OF POST-OPERATIVE COMPLICATIONS AND RECOVERY PATTERNS FOLLOWING LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY: A SIX-MONTH FOLLOW-UP STUDY
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Keywords
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, postoperative complications, recovery patterns, Clavien-Dindo classification, patient outcomes
Abstract
Introduction: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy has become the gold standard treatment for symptomatic gallbladder disease, offering superior outcomes compared to open surgery. However, comprehensive assessment of postoperative complications and recovery patterns remains essential for quality improvement and patient counseling. This study aimed to prospectively evaluate complications and recovery trajectories following laparoscopic cholecystectomy over six months.
Methods: A prospective observational cohort study was conducted at People's College of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Bhopal, from November 2016 to April 2017. Consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were enrolled and followed for 180 days. Complications were classified using Clavien-Dindo criteria, and recovery milestones were systematically documented. Statistical analysis included univariate analysis for risk factor identification.
Results: Among 134 patients (73.1% female, mean age 44.7±12.3 years), overall complication rate was 29.9% with major complications (Grade ≥III) occurring in 7.5%. Conversion to open surgery occurred in 6.0% of cases. No mortality was observed. Mean hospital stay was 2.1±1.4 days, with 83.6% patients returning to normal activities within two weeks. Significant risk factors for complications included BMI >30 kg/m² (p=0.012), ASA classification ≥II (p=0.003), and acute cholecystitis (p=0.008). Patient satisfaction averaged 8.7/10, with sustained improvement in quality of life parameters. Post-cholecystectomy syndrome affected 3.4% at six months.
Conclusion: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy demonstrates excellent safety profile with acceptable complication rates and superior recovery outcomes. Identified risk factors enable better patient selection and counseling, supporting its continued role as the preferred surgical approach for gallbladder disease.
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Dr. Akhil Govil
Assistant Professor, Department of General Surgery, People’s College of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Bhopal