Laser laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the ambulatory setting.

Gallbladder disease, with or without the formation of stones, can be treated in a number of ways. Conservative treatment of a low-fat diet may be difficult for the patient to maintain over a period of time, and may be ineffective in the long run. Chemodissolution of gallstones is a costly pharmacologic treatment that may require repeating within a 5-year period. Other forms of treatment include the still experimental shock wave lithotripsy to break up gallstones before chemodissolution therapy, or surgical removal of the gallbladder by traditional open laparotomy or by laparoscopic intervention. Laser laparoscopic cholecystectomy, a procedure suited to the ambulatory surgery setting, can be used for many individuals requiring cholecystectomy. It is less invasive than traditional surgery and results in a shorter hospital stay, less postoperative pain, and more rapid ambulation and recuperation. Most people can return to work in 3 days and can resume full physical activity after 1 week. Potential intraoperative complications include the puncture or rupture of a blood vessel or viscus with resulting hemorrhage or sepsis. Less serious complications in the postoperative time frame can include nausea and vomiting, minimal to moderate abdominal discomfort, and referred shoulder pain secondary to the pneumoperitoneum. A strong social support system is essential for the patient who is discharged to home within 4 to 23 hours after surgery.