DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sasjs.2025.v11i10.010

Pages: 993-997

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a standard intervention for choledocholithiasis. However, the optimal timing of LC post-ERCP remains debated, with concerns that early surgery may be complicated by inflammation and adhesions. Aim of the study: To compare the perioperative and postoperative outcomes of LC performed within the first week following ERCP versus LC performed after the first week. Methods: This prospective observational study included 44 adult patients who underwent ERCP for choledocholithiasis, cholangitis, or biliary sludge and were scheduled for subsequent LC. Patients were divided into two groups: LC within the first week post-ERCP (n = 22) and LC after the first week (n = 22). Baseline demographics, comorbidities, intraoperative parameters (operative time, adhesions, blood loss, conversion rate, bile duct injury), postoperative complications, hospital stay, readmission, and patient-centered outcomes were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v26, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Result: Baseline characteristics, including age, gender, BMI, ASA grade, and comorbidities, were comparable between groups. Operative time (67.18 ± 14.83 vs. 83.55 ± 17.92 min, p = 0.002) and intraoperative blood loss (median 50 vs. 75 mL, p = 0.01) were significantly lower in the early LC group. Rates of conversion to open surgery, adhesions, and bile duct injury were lower in the early group, though not statistically significant. Postoperatively, early LC was associated with shorter hospital stay (2.00 ± 0.70 vs. 3.18 ± 1.03 days, p < 0.001) and higher rates of favorable outcomes (90.91% vs. 68.18%, p = 0.04), early return to work (72.73% vs. 45.45%, p = 0.05), and patient satisfaction (9.09 ± 0.63 vs. 8.00 ± 1.00, p = 0.001). Overall complication rates were lower in the early group (9.09% vs. 27.27%), though not statistically significant. Conclusion: Performing LC within