The transvaginal hybrid cholecystectomy: an enduring alternative to the laparoscopic cholecystectomy? Experience with 165 cases so far!

BACKGROUND: In the recent years natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) has been an increasingly popular topic with rising numbers of papers and surgeries. We have developed in 2007 a technique of hybrid transvaginal cholecystectomy (TVC) that can be used in daily routine. METHODS: From June 2007 until September 2010, 165 female patients underwent TVC. Data about patients, indications, operations and follow-up were collected prospectively. RESULTS: One hundred and sixty-four TVC could be performed successfully. We had one case of conversion to conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy. We report about one intraoperative complication and one postoperative complication. All other postoperative courses were uneventful and the gynecological examination one week postoperatively without pathological findings. CONCLUSIONS: This technique of TVC is as successful as the conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy and can be used in daily routine.