ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) for asymptomatic gallbladder disease has been increasing since 1990 due to the development of LC technique. Moreover, it might be considered when someone with asymptomatic gallbladder disease needs emergency operation due to acute abdomen such as acute appendicitis. The aim of this study is to identify the efficacy of concurrent laparoscopic appendectomy with cholecystectomy. METHODS: From January 1997 to June 2009, 40 patients underwent laparoscopic appendectomy with cholecystectomy at Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital. 40 patients were enrolled in this study. We analyzed, retrospectively, clinical and diagnostic information, time and open conversion rate in operation, length of postoperation hospital stay, and complication rate. RESULTS: The mean age was 44.53+/-15.34 and male to female ratio was 1 to 1.86. 5% of all patients underwent abdominal surgery and 20% of all patients had associated diseases. Most common associated symptoms and final diagnosis were right lower abdominal pain (72.5%) and simple gallbladder stone (62.5%). Mean operation time was 98.75+/-33.14 min. and there was no open conversion. Mean length of postoperation hospital stay was 5+/-2 days. There was one (2.5%) postoperative complication. CONCLUSION: Combined operation of laparoscopic cholecystectomy during laparoscopic appendectomy can be a good modality for patients with chronic gallbladder disease.