Short-term effects of gallbladder perforations during laparoscopic cholecystectomy on respiratory mechanics and depth of pain

Background In this study the effects of gallbladder perforations during laparoscopic cholecystectomy on respiratory mechanics and depth of pain in the postoperative period was evaluated. Methods Between April 2004 and February 2006 we planned to perform 179 laparoscopic cholecystectomies. One hundred of these patients were included in this study. Patients were divided into two groups: group 1 with gallbladder perforation during the operation and group 2 without perforation. Two groups were compared regarding age, gender, comorbidities, mean hospital stay, respiratory function tests, and postoperative pain scores. Results Gallbladder perforation occurred in 33 patients (33%). The male-to-female ratio of group I was 5/28. In group 2 the male-to-female ratio was 12/55. Age and perforation had a significant correlation according to Spearman's correlation test (p 0.05, r = 0.211). Regarding respiratory function tests and arterial blood gases analysis, there was a significant decrease in both groups postoperatively but perforation had no effect on them. No statistically significant difference occurred regarding mean hospital stay and postoperative visual pain scores (p>0.05). Conclusion Gallbladder perforation during laparoscopic cholecystectomy had no effect on postoperative respiratory mechanics and depth of pain.