Impact of COVID -19 on Gallstones Patients

Background: It is well known that most of the healthcare centers have redistributed their material and human resources to face the health issues associated with COVID-19 pandemic.

Aims: In the current study, we aimed to investigate the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on gall stone patients.

Methods: Comparison was conducted in our own center regarding gallstones related activities before, during and after the pandemic. We reviewed also the number of elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies during these periods. Data were obtained from the hospital recording system. Results: We found a significant increase in the number of gall stones related complications during the COVID-19 pandemic when compared with non-pandemic periods.

Conclusion: It is recommended that laparoscopic cholecystectomies should be considered whenever possible, taking all relevant measures to avoid contagion of patients and the health team.