Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures worldwide; however, specimen retrieval remains a critical step associated with potential complications such as surgical site infection, bile spillage, and port site hernia. The use of retrieval bags during gallbladder extraction is based on surgeon preference and resource availability. This study aimed to compare the benefits and complications of using retrieval bags versus direct extraction during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. A hospital-based prospective comparative study was conducted among 120 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Participants were divided into two groups: retrieval bag used (n=60) and not used (n=60). Outcomes assessed included surgical site infection, postoperative pain and recovery parameters. The mean age of the patients was 44.0+/-13.0years, with a female predominance (4:1). Surgical site infection was observed in 3.3% of patients in the non-retrieval bag group, whereas no infections were reported in the retrieval bag group. Severe postoperative pain (VAS>/= 7) was reported in 10% of the retrieval bag group and 13% of the non-retrieval bag group. However, patients in the retrieval bag group required significantly higher doses of analgesics and experienced delayed return to normal activities. The use of retrieval bags was associated with reduced surgical site infection but increased postoperative pain and delayed recovery. Routine use of retrieval bag may not be necessary in all cases, and their use should be individualized based on intraoperative findings.
Bhattarai et al. (Thu,) studied this question.