Postcholecystectomy syndrome after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A single center experience from Eastern India

Abstract

Introduction: Postcholecystectomy syndrome (PCS) is a group of gastrointestinal symptoms after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This is retrospective review of occurrence and factors for PCS in a single center from Eastern India. Material and Methods: A total of 200 successive patients postlaparoscopic cholecystectomy were reviewed. Follow-up of cases were made by personal interview and examination either at the hospitals or the residence, information collected from the relatives and by correspondence. Results: About 40 developed PCS and were subsequently managed. Females outnumbered males both in total number of cholecystectomy and occurrence of PCS. Most of the patients were <50 years old. 36 patients of the total 40 patients of PCS had calculus. Pain was the most common symptom followed by nausea-vomiting and Jaundice. 9 patients had stone in common bile duct (CBD), while 4 patients had CBD stricture and 3 patients had biliary fistula. 22 patients were managed conservatively, while 18 patients were managed operatively. Relief or cure offered by conservative and operative treatment was found in 32 cases (80%) of the present series. One case (2.5%) of the present series died on conservative treatment, whereas there were two deaths (5%) after surgery. Conclusions: PCS is an important post-treatment morbid condition which is often overlooked. Advanced investigative techniques, correct diagnosis and meticulous surgery will certainly bring down this undesired PCS and finally wipe it out completely.