Abstract Aim The aim of this study is to investigate how waiting times for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy impact clinical outcomes, healthcare utilization (including emergency readmissions, additional diagnostics, and hospital stay burden), &associated costs. By analysing these factors, the study seeks to provide insights into the efficiency and economic implications of current management practices for gallstone-related complications within an NHS Trust. Methods A retrospective cohort analysis of 260 patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy between January 2022 and December 2023 was conducted. Data on demographics, clinical outcomes, healthcare utilization (diagnostic procedures, emergency readmissions, hospital stay), and costs were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics Version 27. Results The median waiting time for surgery was 52 weeks. Complications during the waiting period included cholecystitis (26%), biliary colic (18%), pancreatitis (9.6%), and obstructive jaundice (10%). Emergency readmissions occurred in 28% of patients, with 6% requiring two or more. Repeat imaging was common, with 36% undergoing repeat ultrasound and 30% repeat MRCP. The average pre-treatment hospital stay was 3 ± 5 days. Postoperative outcomes were favorable, with a 99% success rate for laparoscopic procedures, low intraoperative conversion (1%), and minimal postoperative complications (6%). Conclusion Prolonged waiting times for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy significantly increase complications, emergency readmissions, and healthcare costs, straining NHS resources. Delays lead to repeated diagnostics, avoidable hospital stays, and diminished patient well-being. Establishing "hot gallbladder surgery lists" to prioritize urgent cases can streamline pathways, reduce complications, & improve patient outcomes. Timely interventions and optimized resource allocation are essential to alleviate the financial & logistical burdens on healthcare systems.
Haji et al. (Fri,) studied this question.