Complications of cholecystectomy
Although cholecystectomy is believed to be a safe procedure, patients may be to some extent at risk for intra-operative and post-operative complications. The incidence of complication of cholecystectomy is approximately 3.2% and most of it is postoperative. A recent study has found that the probability to have intraoperative complications is equal for open cholecystectomy and laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Vascular and visceral injuries represent the majority of the intra-operative complications of cholecystectomy. Bile duct injury is an intraoperative complication that needs immediate reconstruction by a specialist. Internal hemorrhage may also occur during surgery, it is rare but may be life-threatening. Intestinal injury mostly doesn’t occur. Like any major surgery, an unexpected response to anesthesia is an intra-operative complication.
Pyrexia is reported to be the most common postoperative complication of cholecystectomy. Post-operative complications also include infection, bile leakage, and deep venous thrombosis (DVT). Unfortunately, these complications are as serious as intra-operatives. Patients should be hospitalized and their vitals should be monitored for a day at least to avoid developing complications.
