A comparison of laparoscopic and open treatment of acute cholecystitis.

A retrospective review of 200 patients with acute cholecystitis, half of whom underwent open cholecystectomy and half of whom underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy, was performed. The two groups were compared for demographic characteristics, operative course, cost of intervention, and surgical outcome. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis was accomplished with an acceptable morbidity and provided an earlier release from the hospital and return to normal activities with a significant economic savings as compared to the traditional open approach.