EFFECTIVENESS OF MINIMALLY INVASIVE TECHNIQUES VERSUS TRADITIONAL OPEN SURGERY IN CHOLECYSTECTOMY: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Cholecystectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures in medical practice, with laparoscopy widely accepted as the gold standard due to its lower complication rate and faster recovery. Open surgery, although still performed, is associated with longer hospital stays and higher postoperative complication rates. Objective: To compare the effectiveness and safety of laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus traditional open surgery, analyzing outcomes such as hospital stay, complication rates, conversion to open surgery, and mortality. Method: A systematic review was conducted based on studies published in PubMed over the last ten years, following the PRISMA protocol. Randomized clinical trials, cohort studies, and systematic reviews comparing both surgical techniques were included. Results: Findings indicate that laparoscopic cholecystectomy presents significant advantages, including shorter hospital stays (1.5 days vs. 4 days in open surgery), lower complication rates (10% vs. 25%), and lower mortality (<1% vs. 3-5%). However, conversion to open surgery still occurs in 5-15% of cases, particularly in scenarios of severe inflammation or anatomical distortion. Conclusion: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy should remain the procedure of choice in most cases, while open surgery still plays a relevant role in complex cases.