[Laparoscopic cholecystectomy--current status].

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LCHE) is a safe and effective way to treat gall stones. The procedure was carried out for the first time in France in 1987 and since then it has spread rapidly all over the world, in view of the excellent results achieved. The major benefits are the low morbidity, the very short hospitalization, the early return to daily life and work and its excellent cosmetic results. LCHE is indicated in symptomatic non-complicated gall-bladder disease. The operative technique is standardized, the complication rate is low. Compared with other treatments such as litholysis, extracorporeal shock wave therapy and standard cholecystectomy it is a superior, definitive alternative, which is prognosed to become the therapy of choice in gallbladder disease.