Comparative study of ambulatory laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus management of laparoscopic cholecystectomy with conventional hospital stay

Abstract Introduction To analyze the effectiveness and quality of ambulatory laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CLCMA) versus management of laparoscopic cholecystectomy with conventional hospital stay (CLEST). Material and methods A retrospective study was conducted on all patients ASA I-II, who had a laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) over a period of 6 years. The patients were divided into 2 groups: group CLCMA (n=141 patients) and group CLEST (n=286 patients). The effectiveness was analyzed by evaluating morbidity, further surgery, re-admission and hospital stay. The quality analysis was performed using CLCMA group satisfaction surveys and subsequent assessment by indicators of satisfaction. Results There was no significant differences between groups (CLEST vs CLCMA) in morbidity (5.24 vs 4.26), further surgery (2.45 vs 1.42) or re-admissions (1.40 vs 3.55). There was no postoperative mortality. In the CLCMA group 82% of patients were discharged on the same day of surgery, with a mean stay of 1.16 days, while in the CLEST group the mean hospital stay was 2.94 days ( P =.003). The overall satisfaction rate was 82%, and the level of satisfaction of care received was 81%, both above the previously set standard. Conclusions CLCMA is just as effective and safe as hospital based CLEST, with a good level of perceived quality.