Drainage following cholecystectomy

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Abstract
The effect of intraperitoneal drainage and incidental appendicectomy has been studied in 309 patients who had undergone routine cholecystectomy. Patients who did not have drainage fared better than those in which drains were used. There was an increase in postoperative morbidity when the drain was left in position for more than 48 hours. But when the drain was removed during the first 48 hours the results obtained were the same as for cases in whom no drain was used. Incidental appendicectomy while carrying out cholecystectomy did not affect the morbidity or mortality of the operation. It is concluded that in the absence of bile leakage, drains from the hepatorenal space should be removed within 48 hours, and incidental appendicectomy should be carried out when it can be performed with ease and without undue manipulation.

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