Short-interval intravenous indocyanine green administration in pediatric laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a prospective evaluation of visualization and safety.

Abstract

Purpose: Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging enhances biliary visualization during pediatric laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), helping to identify anatomical variants and prevent bile duct injury. Standard pediatric recommendations suggest ICG administration 16-24 h preoperatively; however, this may be impractical. This study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of short-interval ICG administration.

Methods: A prospective single-center study (October 2024-June 2025) included pediatric LC patients receiving intravenous Verdye® preoperatively. Visualization of extrahepatic biliary anatomy was assessed intraoperatively using a 5-point Likert scale, HELPFUL (usefulness), and DISTURBED (liver background interference) scores. Data included indication, ICG timing, operative time, and complications according to the Clavien-Dindo classification (C-D).

Results: Eleven patients (64% female), median age 14 years (IQR 12,7-15,7) and median weight 65,5 kg (IQR 46,5-80), were included. Five had BMI > 25 kg/m²; five (46%) underwent preoperative ERCP. ICG (median dose 0.34 mg/kg) was administered a median of 225 min before surgery. Median operative time was 65 min (IQR 58-68). Median Likert score was 5; HELPFUL 3; DISTURBED 1. No ICG-related or C-D complications occurred.

Conclusion: Short-interval ICG administration was safe, feasible, and effective in enhancing biliary visualization during pediatric LC. This approach was well-tolerated and provided high-quality imaging without complications.