Relaparoscopy for the detection and treatment of complications of laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Background: Laparotomy remains the commonest intervention in patients with abdominal complications of laparoscopic surgery. Our own policy is to employ relaparoscopy to avoid diagnostic delay and unnecessary laparotomy. The results of using this policy in patients with suspected intra-abdominal complications following laparoscopic cholecystectomy are reviewed. Methods: Data were collected from laparoscopic cholecystectomies carried out by five consultant surgeons in one center. Details of relaparoscopy for complications were analyzed. Results: Thirteen patients underwent relaparoscopy within 7 days of laparoscopic cholecystectomy for intra-abdominal bleeding (2 patients) or abdominal pain (11 patients). The causes of pain were subhepatic haematoma (1), acute pancreatitis (1), small bowel injury (1), and minor bile leakage (6). In 2 patients no cause was identified. Twelve patients were managed laparoscopically and 1 patient required laparotomy. Median stay after relaparoscopy was 7 days (range 2 to 19). Conclusions: Exploratory laparotomy can be avoided by prompt relaparoscopy in the majority of patients with abdominal complications of laparoscopic cholecystectomy.