RESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: To define optimal rules for the treatment of acute cholecystitis taking into account possible laparoscopic surgery. METHOD: Critical analysis of the authors' group of 90 patients with acute cholecystitis. RESULTS: Optimal results were achieved with surgical treatment within 72 hours after the first clinical symptoms of the disease without the need of conversion of the laparoscopic operation in the authors' group. Surgery between the third and tenth day of hospitalization is unfavourable with a conversion rate of 18%. CONCLUSION: Acute cholecystitis with complications calls for urgent classical surgery, acute cholecystitis without complications laparoscopic operation within 72 hours after the first clinical symptoms. In critically ill patients alternative cholecystostomy or puncture of the gallbladder may be used.
