Comparison of laparoscopic portoenterostomy and open portoenterostomy for the treatment of biliary atresia.

Meta-analysis of 434 patients comparing laparoscopic versus open portoenterostomy for biliary atresia shows comparable safety and efficacy, with laparoscopic approach requiring longer operative time but achieving similar outcomes in jaundice clearance, survival, and complications. Recent studies suggest improved jaundice clearance rates with laparoscopic technique.