Objective: To summarize the clinical experience of managcment of Calot triangle in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) for atrophic cholecystitis.
Methods: The clinical data of 125 cases of atrophic calculous cholecystitis treated by LC were analyzed retrospectively.
Results: LC was performed successfully in 117 of 125 cases (93.6%). Of the 8 unsuccessful cases which were converted into open surgery, 4 cases were caused by dense adhesions in Calot triangle which prevented dissection of the cystic duct; 1 case was caused by dense adhesion of cholecyst that was inseparable from surrounding tissue; 2 cases were caused by bleeding of cystic artery; and another case was caused by cholecystoduodenal fistula. All cases were treated successfully and without operative complications.
Conclusions: Dissection of Calot triangle is the key for success of LC in atrophic cholecystitis. There are two ways that can improve the success rate of LC in atrophic cholecystitis: (1)Use of B-mode ultrasound, CT, or MRI to judge the condition of Calot triangle preoperatively. (2) Correct management of cholecystic duct and cholecystic artery during operation.