Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy: the effect of age on conversions, complications and long-term results.

Background/aims: The purpose of the present study was to analyze the appropriateness and long-term results of elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the treatment of gallstone disease in the elderly.
Methods: We studied all elderly (≥75 years) patients (n = 80) who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy at our institution during the years 1992-2001. Two control groups (65-74 years and <65 years) included the same amount of patients. For determining the long-term results, we asked the patients to specify their overall satisfaction with the results of the procedure (very satisfied, satisfied, no effect, worse).
Results: There were no statistically significant differences in mean operative time (61, 65, 72 min) or conversions to open surgery (6, 11, 16%) between the age groups (<65, 65-74, ≥75 years). The mean hospitalization time (2.1, 3.3, 4.4 days) and complications (0, 11, 13%) increased with the age of the patients. Neither severe complications nor mortality were encountered. The vast majority of the patients were very satisfied or satisfied with the long-term results of the procedure in all age groups (97% <65 years, 83% 65-74 years, 80% ≥75 years).
Conclusion: Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy is also a safe and feasible operation with good long-term results in the elderly.
(Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.)