Quality control in laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Operation notes, video or photo print?

Abstract

Background: In 1995 the concept of a 'critical view of safety' (CVS) in Calot's triangle was introduced to prevent bile duct injury in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The aim of this study was to determine the most reliable method for recording CVS. Methods: Operation notes, video images and photo prints from 50 consecutive elective non-converted laparoscopic cholecystomies were analysed. Results: Operation notes alone did not suffice to record CVS. As an adjunct, video proved superior to photo print with regard to quality. Nevertheless, photo prints were practically and logistically much easier to produce than video. Moreover, when good quality images were achieved, photo print recorded CVS more conclusively than video. Discussion: Operation notes, video and photo print are complementary, and the combination records CVS conclusively in nearly every case.