Two-port mini laparoscopic cholecystectomy compared to standard four-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy

INTRODUCTION: Two-port mini laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has been proposed as a safe and feasible technique. However, there are limited studies to evaluate the effectiveness of the procedure. This study is a prospective randomised trial to compare the standard four-port LC with two-port mini LC. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 116 consecutive patients undergoing LC were randomised to four-port/two-port mini LC. In two-port mini LC, a 10-mm umbilical and a 5-mm epigastric port were used. Outcomes measured were duration and difficulty of operation, post-operative pain, analgesia requirements, post-operative stay, complications and cosmetic score at 30 days. RESULTS: Out of 116 patients, the ratio of M:F was 11:92, with mean age 40.79 ± 12.6 years. Twelve patients (nine in four-port group and three in two-port group) were lost to follow-up. The mean operative time were similar (P = 0.727). Post-operative pain was significantly low in the two-port group at up to 24 hrs (P = 0.023). The overall analgesia requirements (P = 0.003) and return to daily activity (P = 0.00) were significantly lower in two-port group. The cosmesis score of the two-port group was better than four-port group (P = 0.00). However, the length of hospital stay (P = 0.760) and complications (P = 0.247) were similar between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Two-port mini LC resulted in reduced pain, need for analgesia, and improved cosmesis without increasing the operative time and complication rates compared to that in four-port LC. Thus, it can be recommended in selected patients.