Management of Postoperative Symptoms after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Therapeutic Measures

Early mobilization of the patient should be promoted to accelerate the absorption of the remaining CO₂ gas, as recommended by the World Journal of Emergency Surgery 1, 2
Deep breathing exercises and respiratory physiotherapy should be initiated to improve the elimination of CO₂ through the lungs, as recommended by the World Journal of Emergency Surgery 1, 2
In cases of hypoxemia or severe respiratory symptoms, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or non-invasive ventilation should be considered, as recommended by the World Journal of Emergency Surgery 1

Multimodal pain therapy should be used, including paracetamol and NSAIDs (if no contraindications are present), as recommended by the World Journal of Emergency Surgery 1, 3
In cases of severe pain, opioids can be used short-term, with oral administration preferred when possible, as recommended by the World Journal of Emergency Surgery 3
Transdermal fentanyl (25 μg/h) can be considered as an alternative for severe pain, as recommended by the World Journal of Emergency Surgery 3

The patient should be positioned upright to facilitate diaphragmatic movement, as recommended by Anaesthesia 4, 5
Humidification of the air with oxygen can be helpful in cases of respiratory distress, as recommended by Anaesthesia 4
Antiemetics (e.g., ondansetron) can be used in cases of accompanying nausea, as recommended by the American Journal of Hematology 6

Patients should be informed about warning signs that require medical attention (increasing shortness of breath, severe pain, fever), as recommended by Anaesthesia 4, 5

Patients over 65 years old should undergo regular screening for postoperative delirium, as recommended by the World Journal of Emergency Surgery 1

Patients with persistent symptoms beyond 48 hours should undergo re-evaluation, as recommended by Anaesthesia 4
Patients should be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to support the absorption of the gas, as recommended by the World Journal of Emergency Surgery 7
Regular monitoring of vital parameters (respiratory rate, oxygen saturation) should be performed in the immediate postoperative phase, as recommended by Anaesthesia 4