Acute cholecystitis in patients with diabetes mellitus - systematic review

Introduction: According to the WHO, an estimated 422 million people are suffering from diabetes worldwide. Among them, the incidence of cholelithiasis is higher than in the healthy population. The aim of this literature review was to summarize the available evidence about acute cholecystitis in patients with diabetes. Materials and methods: This study adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. The course of hospitalization of patients with and without diabetes who underwent cholecystectomy due to acute cholecystitis was compared. Following information was abstracted from original studies: general study information, patient characteristics, complications, and recommendations for patients with diabetes. Results: Initial search provided 1632 results. After full text assessment, 40 studies met the inclusions criteria. Operative and postoperative complication rates were significantly higher among the diabetic patients. Diabetes is a risk factor for conversion from laparoscopic to open cholecystectomy method. The authors' opinions on elective surgery before the onset of acute cholecystitis symptoms are divided. Conclusions: Diabetic patients are at greater risk of developing complications. An individualized screening and treatment approach, as well as proper preparation of the diabetic patient for an elective cholecystectomy could have a positive effect on the outcome. However, the low quality of the data from the systematic review does not allow for meta-analysis, which is why we cannot draw strong conclusions.