A Prospective Observational Study to Determine Predictive Factors for Difficult Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Using Clinico-Radiological Criteria

Gallstone disease is common worldwide, with laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) being the standard treatment for symptomatic cases. Although LC offers clear advantages over open surgery, 1–13% of procedures require conversion due to technical difficulties. This prospective observational study evaluates simple preoperative clinical and ultrasonographic parameters—such as prior cholecystitis attacks, leukocytosis, gallbladder wall thickness, and pericholecystic fluid—to predict difficult LC and conversion risk. Identifying high-risk patients preoperatively can improve surgical planning, patient counseling, and optimal utilization of experienced surgical teams.