Abstract: | SummaryPatients over the age of 65, undergoing either laparoscopic cholecystectomy or laparoscopic groin hernia repair in two centres, were retrospectively reviewed. 114 patients (median age 73) case-notes were reviewed. 94 patients had undergone laparoscopic cholecystectomy and 20 laparoscopic hernia repair. 81 % were American society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) Grade I or II, with 17% Grade III and 2% Grade IV. 8% of the laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients had unsuspected common bile duct stones detected on cholangiography. There was a 5% conversion to open procedure in the cholecystectomy group and 0% in the hernia group. Median hospital stay was 2 days. Mortality was 0% in both groups. Major post-operative morbidity occurred in 4% of the laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients, delaying their discharge. We conclude that laparoscopic surgery is a safe procedure in the elderly patient when accompanied by good patient selection and anaesthetic care. |