Abstract
SUMMARY
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has become a commonplace operation in most Western nations. We are reporting the results of the first 100 operations in the Republic of Yemen. Although the techniques and the results are similar to those previously described by others, developing nations have unique problems that can also be addressed satisfactorily by minimally invasive surgery.
ABSTRACT
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is now a well described and common operation in Western countries. However, there is still considerable controversy regarding whether or not this procedure should be performed in developing nations. In the Republic of Yemen, there is only one general surgeon performing LC in a country of 13 million. This report represents the initial experience in Yemen. The patient mix and results are similar to those described by others.
The results of the first 100 LCs performed in the Republic of Yemen are presented. Laparoscopy is new in Yemen, and we have the privilege of having the only laparoscopic equipment in the entire country. LC was started in a private hospital clinic after the authors attended a training course in the United States. One surgeon at the hospital performed all of the operations (YYB) with a single assistant (NSE).
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