Early or Delayed Cholecystectomy (LC) for Acute Gallstone Pancreatitis? An Experience and Review

Background/Aims: The timing for the management of gallstones pancreatitis remains a contentious issue. Various scholars have their own achievement in in regards to this issue. Methodology: We reviewed our hospital charts from Jan 2007 to December 2010 and made a comparative study about early and delayed LC for mild to moderate gallstone pancreatitis in 80 patients. Results: Successful management was obtained in all patients. Out of 80 patients, 54 had underwent for early LC within 48 hours and 26 delayed LC (6-8 weeks). Conclusions: Our study reveals that early cholecystectomy has nice outcomes in terms of shorter hospital stay and expenses. Proper consultation should be taken from radiological colleague if CBD dilations are >6mm and contraction of gallbladder appears on imaging modalities. Comorbid conditions, past history of cholecystitis cannot be avoided for proper surgical outcomes. Postoperative complications can be deterred by early LC for mild gallstone pancreatitis. However, large volume studies are essential from different places to answer the debated topic of which management protocol is justifiable for the management of mild to moderate gall stone pancreatitis.