Early Versus Delayed Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy For Acute Mild Biliary Pancreatitis: A Prospective Comparative Study

This was a hospital-based prospective observational study performed at a tertiary academic center from September 2020 to August 2021.

Patients diagnosed with acute mild biliary pancreatitis according to the Revised Atlanta classification 2012 were enrolled from the Emergency/Outpatient Department. Detailed history taking and thorough general and systemic examinations were conducted. Eligible patients were informed about treatment options (early vs. delayed LC) and provided informed written consent. Randomization into "early" or "delayed" groups was performed, and detailed investigations were conducted. To avoid bias, randomization was accomplished by lottery method. In the early group, laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed during the same admission, while delayed group patients underwent surgery after symptom resolution and readmission. Surgeries were performed under general anesthesia with standard laparoscopic techniques with surgeons of equivalent qualifications. Postoperative care included analgesics and antibiotics, with follow-up examinations and histopathological assessments conducted at specified intervals. Oral intake and pain management protocols were implemented postoperatively, with patients monitored for recovery and instructed to return to normal activities after staple removal. Patients were asked to complete a visual analog pain score (VAS) from 0 (no pain) to 10 (intolerable pain) on the seventh postoperative day.