Keywords
bile duct injuries
complications
laparotomy
Niger
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction :
Cholecystectomy is a widely performed surgical procedure worldwide. While laparoscopy is the standard surgical approach, laparotomy remains relevant in our context. The objective of this study was to determine the indications and complications of open cholecystectomies (via laparotomy) at the Zinder National Hospital (HNZ). Patients and Methods : This was a cross-sectional study with retrospective data collection covering an 18-month period from January 2021 to June 2022. Patients who underwent cholecystectomy via laparotomy in the Surgery B Department of Zinder National Hospital were included.
Results :
A total of 48 cholecystectomies were performed. The mean patient age was 41.1 ± 13.2 years (range : 15 to 72 years). Women accounted for 79.17% of cases, representing a sex ratio of 0.26. Comorbidities included oral contraception use (10.4%), sickle cell disease (6.3%), and diabetes (4.2%). Overweight or obesity affected 12.5% of cases. Indications were dominated by symptomatic gallstones (85.42%) and biliary peritonitis (8.33%). Elective surgery represented 85.42% of cases. Postoperative complications were recorded in 22.91% (n=11) of cases, dominated by suppuration in 5 cases and bile duct injuries in 3 cases. Mortality was 2.08%, compared to 97.92% discharged recovered. The mean length of hospital stay was 7.18 ± 6.59 days. Comorbidities (sickle cell disease, diabetes, obesity) were significantly associated with the occurrence of complications (OR=7.68; p=0.0044).
Conclusion :
Open cholecystectomy remains frequent in our limited-resource context. Although a standard procedure, postoperative complications related to patient condition and technical difficulties are not negligible. Laparoscopy, which is the gold standard, must be promoted and made more widely available in our regions.
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