Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: relationship of pathology and operative time.

Objective: Controversy exists regarding the use and timing of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the treatment of both acute and chronic cholecystitis. Acute advocates claim to avoid fibrosis and potential dissection injuries, whereas chronic proponents avoid poor visualization due to edema and possible conversion. This study of both acute and chronic cholecystitis cases examines the relationships between pathology, operative time, and outcome of laparoscopic cholecystectomy.