Introduction of paediatric laparoscopic cholecystectomy in Scotland: a national review of incidence, outcomes and training implications.

Background: We present a national data series to determine the incidence, outcomes and training opportunities for laparoscopic cholecystectomy among children <16yrs in Scotland as performed by paediatric surgeons.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed reviewing laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed at the three children's hospitals in Scotland. Using the National Records Scotland Database mid-year population estimates; age and sex specific annual incidence rates of laparoscopic cholecystectomy were calculated between 1998-2015. Trends in the observed case mix were tested using univariate linear regression and students t-test.

Results: Between 1998-2015; 141 paediatric laparoscopic cholecystectomies were performed. The annual rate of cholecystectomy increased from 0.10/100,000 to 0.88/100,000 (p = 0.069). Sex specific incidences were identified; 0.00-0.90/100,000 (p = 0.098) in girls and 0.20-0.86/100,000 in boys (p = 0.28). Cholecystectomy was more frequent in girls (63%; p = 0.04). No major complications, defined as common bile duct injury or mortality were identified. Overall; 75% of cases were performed by consultants (n = 17 consultants, median = 5 cases, p < 0.05) and 25% by trainees.

Conclusion: We have demonstrated that despite a low national case load (8 laparoscopic cholecystectomies per year) paediatric surgeons have been able to perform laparoscopic cholecystectomy safely without major morbidity.