Abstract
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy has all but replaced the traditional open approach. Hence
open cholecystectomy (OC) is principally reserved for cases in which laparoscopy fails,
leaving fewer surgeons with experience in the procedure required for the most challenging
cases. This review of OC includes discussion of the indications for a primary open
approach, conversion from laparoscopy, technical aspects of OC, and alternatives (cholecystostomy
and subtotal cholecystectomy). Strategies for safe OC must be formally addressed in
residency programs.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Received in revised form:
April 3,
2007
Received:
February 20,
2007
Identification
Copyright
© 2008 Excerpta Medica Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
