This is the Scientific Surgery Archive, which contains all randomized clinical trials in surgery that have been identified by searching the top 50 English language medical journal issues since January 1998. Compiled by Jonothan J. Earnshaw, former Editor-in-Chief, BJS
Randomized trial of needlescopic versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy. BJS 2001; 88: 45-47.
Published: 6th December 2002
Authors: W. K. Cheah, J. E. Lenzi, J. B. Y. So, C. K. Kum, P. M. Y. Goh
Background
Several studies have reported the feasibility of using ‘needlescopic’ instruments with a diameter less than 3 mm in minimally invasive surgery. This study reports a comparison of needlescopic cholecystectomy and laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Method
Seventy‐five patients with symptomatic chronic cholelithiasis were randomized to needlescopic (n = 37) or laparoscopic (n = 38) cholecystectomy.
Results
The duration of surgery in the two groups was similar. Patients in the needlescopic group had less pain (mean visual analogue score 2·2 versus 3·6; P < 0·003) and had smaller scars (median length 17·0 versus 25·0 mm; P < 0·001). In addition, patients in the needlescopic group tended to require fewer intramuscular pethidine injections (P = 0·05). However, oral analgesic requirements in the two groups were similar. There were no complications in either group.
Conclusion
Needlescopic cholecystectomy resulted in less postoperative pain and a smaller surgical scar than laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with chronic cholecystitis. © 2001 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd
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