ABSTRACT
The prevalence is 10–15% of the adult population. Gallstones are more common in women (male:female ratio of 1:4). The indications for operative management: symptomatic gallstones causing biliary colic or pancreatitis, cholecystitis (can be performed early or late), acalculous cholecystitis, empyema of the gallbladder, and mucocoele of the gallbladder. Informed consent must be obtained prior to the operation, including permission to convert to an open procedure. A right upper transverse incision would be made over the lateral border of the rectus muscle. The chapter presents complications that may arise from either cholecystectomy operation. A preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) would be considered in cases where there was a possibility of a common bile duct stone, indicated by the following: abnormal liver function tests, dilated common bile duct on ultrasound scan, and pancreatitis.
