Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy in Bangladesh: Demographics, Comorbidities, and Preoperative Risk Features in 100 Consecutive Patients

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the global standard for managing symptomatic gallstone disease, yet detailed data on the preoperative characteristics of patients undergoing this procedure in Bangladesh remains limited. A clear understanding of local demographic patterns, comorbidity burdens, and preoperative risk features is essential for optimizing surgical care. Aim: The aim of this study was to characterize the demographic profile, comorbidity patterns, and preoperative risk features in patients undergoing elective LC at a tertiary care center in Bangladesh. Methods & Materials: This prospective cross-sectional observational study included 100 consecutive patients scheduled for elective LC at Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College and Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh from January to December 2023. Data on demographics, comorbidities, surgical indications, and preoperative risk features from clinical assessment and imaging were systematically collected and analyzed. Results: The largest proportion of patients were aged 31-40 years (36.0%), with 64.0% being under 41 years of age. A female predominance was observed (59.0%). Symptomatic cholelithiasis was the primary indication for surgery (90.0%). Hypertension was the most common comorbidity (56.0%), followed by diabetes mellitus (20.0%). Preoperative risk features for difficult surgery were present in only 16.0% of patients, with gallbladder wall thickening on ultrasound being the most frequent (5.0%). Conclusion: Patients undergoing elective LC in Bangladesh are predominantly young to middle-aged females with a high prevalence of hypertension and diabetes, but relatively few preoperative risk factors for difficult surgery. This profile underscores the importance of preoperative comorbidity optimization and provides a valuable baseline for future studies in the region.