Abstract | BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the role that laparoscopy plays in the management of gallbladder cancer. METHOD: From August 2005 to March 2009, 23 patients affected by gallbladder cancer detected after the study of a cholecystectomy specimen underwent laparoscopy as part of their management. RESULTS: Among the patients, 5 underwent only an exploratory laparoscopy, while 11 were converted due to the existence of dense adhesions that precluded a complete exploration. Of the patients with adhesions who underwent conversion, three were unresectable. The remainder underwent a lymphadenectomy and liver resection after conversion. Of the seven who underwent a complete laparoscopic exploration, five had a lymphadenectomy and liver resection done completely by laparoscopy while conversion was needed for two. Conversion was required due to lymphatic metastasis at the hepatic pedicle and the presence of a bile leak. Postoperative time was uneventful, with patients discharged within 3 days of the operation. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopy may be employed in the management of patients with early forms of gallbladder cancer undergoing reoperation. Although the presence of adhesions may result in inadequate exploration, there is a subset of patients for whom it is possible to perform a complete exam. Furthermore, laparoscopic lymphadenectomy and gallbladder bed resection is a promising technique in well-selected patients.
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Authors | Xabier de Aretxabala, Jorge Leon, Juan Hepp, Fernando Maluenda, Ivan Roa |
Journal | Surgical endoscopy
(Surg Endosc)
Vol. 24
Issue 9
Pg. 2192-6
(Sep 2010)
ISSN: 1432-2218 [Electronic] Germany |
PMID | 20177932
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
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Topics |
- Adult
- Aged
- Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic
(methods)
- Female
- Gallbladder Neoplasms
(diagnostic imaging, surgery)
- Humans
- Lymph Node Excision
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Neoplasm Invasiveness
- Reoperation
- Tomography, X-Ray Computed
- Treatment Outcome
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