Mini-laparoscopic cholecystectomy vs laparoscopic cholecystectomy - A matched case-control study

Background: We set out to assess the safety and efficacy of mini-laparoscopic cholecystectomy (MLC) in uncomplicated situations. Methods: MLC was performed on 30 consecutive selected patients (< 60 years old, ASA I-II, uncomplicated cholecystectomy) with one 12-mm and three 3-mm ports. The total operating time, conversion rate, degree of postoperative pain, duration of postoperative hospital stay, complications, and cosmetic results were all reviewed and compared with 30 cases of consecutive conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Results: None of the patients in either group required conversion to open cholecystectomy. No complications were observed. The operating time and duration of hospital stay were similar in both groups. The level of postoperative pain was lower in the MLC group (p < 0.001). More patients in the MLC group expressed satisfaction with the cosmetic result p < 0.05). Conclusions: MLC was shown to be feasible in uncomplicated situations. Furthermore, it was associated with less pain and produced better cosmetic results than conventional LC. Randomized studies are still needed to confirm these findings.