Gallbladder cancer: role of laparoscopy in the management of potentially resectable tumors

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role that laparoscopy plays in the management of gallbladder cancer.

From August 2005 to March 2009, 23 patients affected by gallbladder cancer detected after the study of a cholecystectomy specimen underwent laparoscopy as part of their management.

Among the patients, 5 underwent only an exploratory laparoscopy, while 11 were converted due to the existence of dense adhesions that precluded a complete exploration. Of the patients with adhesions who underwent conversion, three were unresectable. The remainder underwent a lymphadenectomy and liver resection after conversion. Of the seven who underwent a complete laparoscopic exploration, five had a lymphadenectomy and liver resection done completely by laparoscopy while conversion was needed for two. Conversion was required due to lymphatic metastasis at the hepatic pedicle and the presence of a bile leak. Postoperative time was uneventful, with patients discharged within 3 days of the operation.

Laparoscopy may be employed in the management of patients with early forms of gallbladder cancer undergoing reoperation. Although the presence of adhesions may result in inadequate exploration, there is a subset of patients for whom it is possible to perform a complete exam. Furthermore, laparoscopic lymphadenectomy and gallbladder bed resection is a promising technique in well-selected patients.