Reduced reliance on percutaneous cholecystostomy improves outcomes

A quality improvement initiative across eight teaching hospitals significantly reduced percutaneous cholecystostomy usage for acute calculous cholecystitis, dropping from 9.7% to 7.2%. Post-implementation data indicated a decrease in 30-day mortality (odds ratio 0.60) and increased laparoscopic cholecystectomy rates (94.5% to 96.3%). Although minor bile duct leaks rose from 0.9% to 2.1%, no major duct injuries were reported. This structured pathway illustrates a trend towards safer surgical interventions with better outcomes.