eP56 Gall Stone Pancreatitis: Timing of Surgery is Critical

Abstract Aim Gallstone pancreatitis is a significant contributor to acute pancreatitis, leading to substantial morbidity and healthcare burden. It has been emphasized that early laparoscopic cholecystectomy following an initial episode of gallstone pancreatitis remains more beneficial in outcome compared to delayed cholecystectomy. This retrospective cohort study examines the outcomes associated with index admission versus delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy, including the impact of delayed surgery performed within and beyond six weeks on readmission rates, length of hospital stays, and complications. Methods Data from 99 patients diagnosed with gallstone pancreatitis at a tertiary hospital in the UK between April 2022 and March 2023 were analysed. Patients were categorized based on the timing of their cholecystectomy: index admission, within six weeks, after six weeks, or awaiting surgery. Outcomes assessed included readmission rates, length of stay, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. Results 72 patients had surgery: 15% of them had index cholecystectomy, while 85% had delayed surgery (< 6 weeks: 33, >6 weeks: 28). Readmission rates were higher in the delayed group. Between the delayed groups, there was no statistical significance with reference to readmissions (< 6 weeks 7, > 6 weeks: 8). Those who had index cholecystectomy had longer hospital stay (p = 0.0006). ICU admissions were seen in patients who had surgery delayed beyond six weeks. Conclusions Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy during index admission, while associated with a longer hospital stay, appears to reduce readmission rates and complications, confirming it is a more effective approach in managing gallstone pancreatitis. Surgeries beyond 6 weeks are associated with severe complications.