Laparoscopic cholecystectomy by paediatric surgeons: can established standards of care be delivered?

Purpose Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) case volume is low for paediatric surgeons relative to the adult sector; coupled with service differences, internationally accepted standards may be more challenging to meet. This study sought to determine (i) the outcomes of LC in children, and (ii) whether recognised care pathways (e.g. acute LC, access to cholangiogram/ERCP and day-case LC provision) can be delivered. Methods Patients who underwent LC were identified retrospectively in a single institution between January 2009 and January 2019. Data are presented as median [IQR] and continuous variables compared using a t test. Results 101 cases were included (age 12.9 years [10.2–15]; female 65/101). Indications for LC were symptomatic gallstones (98/101) and polyps (2/101). ERCP and/or endoscopic ultrasound were performed in 23/101. For acute presentations, 7/24 (29%) had LC during the same admission. Trainees performed LC in 33/101. 4/101 required intra-operative cholangiogram. Operative time was 109.5 min [90.8–139.5]: consultant vs. trainee times were similar (114 [93.3–149.5] vs. 99.5 [81.5–125.3], p = 0.06). Length of stay was one day [1–1] with 10/101 being day-cases. There were no major complications or re-operations. Conclusion We report good outcomes from LC. Furthermore, we have demonstrated the capacity to deliver recognised standards of care within a paediatric setting.