Randomized controlled trial of laparoscopic cholecystectomy after ENGBD versus PTGBD in acute cholecystitis: the LCEVP study protocol

Background Transitional drainage which is followed by cholecystectomy plays a key role in the management of acute cholecystitis, especially in high-risk surgical patients. Endoscopic naso-gallbladder drainage (ENGBD) is an alternative to percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD) for patients who need temporary drainage. There is a lack of prospective comparison on the relevant outcomes of the two drainage methods during the period of drainage, especially the subsequent cholecystectomy.Methods This is a randomised controlled two arm double-blind singer center trial. Patients with acute cholecystitis undergo emergent or early cholecystectomy and need drainage will be randomly assigned to group PTGBD or ENGBD. Pain score is defined as the primary endpoint, whereas several secondary endpoints such as the rates of technical success, clinical remission, open conversion of cholecystectomy will be determined to elucidate more detailed differences between two groups. The general feasibility, safety and quality checks required for high quality evidence will be adhered to.Discussion This study would provide the first type A evidence concerning the comparison of ENGBD versus PTGBD in surgically high-risk patients with acute cholecystitis, it will be the first trial designed to determine the impact of two drainage methods on not only peri-drainage but also peri-LC.Trial registration NCT03701464. Registered on 10 Octomber 2018.