Comparing Early and Delayed Laparoscopic Gallbladder Removal After Percutaneous Drainage in Moderate to Severe Acute Cholecystitis

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the best timing for laparoscopic cholecystectomy LC after percutaneous cholecystostomy PCC in patients with moderate to severe acute cholecystitis. The study aims to improve treatment standards and reduce complications related to PCC. Currently, delayed LC is often done about 6 weeks after PCC, but this trial compares early LC during the same hospital stay to the usual delayed approach. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups early LC performed within the same admission after PCC insertion, usually within 72 hours but not more than 2 weeks, or delayed LC done more than 6 weeks after PCC to allow inflammation and swelling to subside. The study monitors clinical and laboratory signs for 72 hours after PCC before randomization. During the study, researchers will track complications from PCC and LC using the Comprehensive Complication Index for up to 3 months after surgery. They will also assess surgical difficulty, hospital stay length, rates of subtotal cholecystectomy, conversion to open surgery, and bile duct injury. Participants undergo laparoscopic surgery at designated hospitals with follow-up to monitor outcomes and safety for several months after procedures.

Early Versus Delayed Cholecystectomy After Percutaneous Cholecystostomy in Moderate and Severe Cholecystitis (ESCAPE)