CLINICAL ADVANTAGES OF LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY: EFFECTS ON RECOVERY AND PATIENT SATISFACTION OVER THE OPEN APPROACH

Abstract

Cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at removing the gallbladder, and is commonly used in the treatment of conditions such as symptomatic cholelithiasis and various gallbladder-related diseases. With advances in surgical techniques, laparoscopic cholecystectomy has become the preferred approach in many cases, replacing the conventional open technique. The objective of this integrative review is to analyze the advantages of laparoscopic cholecystectomy compared to conventional surgery, focusing on aspects such as recovery time, postoperative pain, complications, costs, and aesthetic results. The methodology included searches in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and SciELO, covering studies published in the last 20 years. Inclusion criteria included systematic reviews, clinical trials, and observational studies that compared both surgical approaches. The results indicate that laparoscopic cholecystectomy offers significantly shorter recovery times, allowing patients to quickly return to daily activities. Additionally, this technique is associated with reduced levels of postoperative pain and a lower rate of complications, such as infections and hernias. The aesthetic results are also superior, with less visible scars. Although the initial costs of laparoscopy may be higher, the cost-effectiveness analysis suggests that in the long run, it may be more cost-effective due to the reduction in length of hospital stay and postoperative care. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the benefits of laparoscopic cholecystectomy and its implications for clinical practice and public health.