Epidemiological dashboard of hospitalizations for cholelithiasis and cholecystitis in the Southeast region (2016–2025) and the role of postoperative respiratory physiotherapy

Abstract

Introduction: Cholelithiasis and cholecystitis are among the most prevalent conditions affecting the biliary system and represent major indications for surgical intervention in general surgery, with significant implications for the organization of healthcare services. Objective: The epidemiological profile of hospital admissions for cholelithiasis and cholecystitis in the Southeast region of Brazil from 2016 to 2025 was described, alongside a discussion on the relevance of respiratory physiotherapy in the postoperative period, particularly regarding the prevention of respiratory complications associated with abdominal surgical procedures. Methods: This was an epidemiological study utilizing data from the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS)—specifically hospital morbidity data from the Unified Health System (SUS)—applying inclusion and exclusion criteria and subsequently tabulating the data for the 2016–2025 period. Results: A total of 1,156,672 hospital admissions for cholelithiasis and cholecystitis were recorded in the Southeast region between 2016 and 2025. An upward trend was observed throughout the historical series, with a decline in 2020 and 2021—attributed to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic—followed by a significant recovery starting in 2022. The state of São Paulo accounted for the highest number of admissions, followed by Minas Gerais. A predominance of females, adults aged 40 to 59, individuals self-identifying as white, and elective admissions was observed. These findings align with existing literature by demonstrating the influence of demographic, hormonal, structural, and healthcare-related factors on the disease's epidemiological profile. Furthermore, they highlight the importance of respiratory physiotherapy during the perioperative period of cholecystectomy, contributing to the prevention of pulmonary complications, recovery of respiratory function, reduction of hospital stay duration, and improvement of clinical outcomes, thereby reinforcing its inclusion in care protocols. Conclusion: Cholelithiasis and cholecystitis remain significant public health issues in the Southeast region, showing an upward trend in hospitalizations between 2016 and 2025; these conditions predominantly affect women, middle-aged adults, and the elderly—particularly in the state of São Paulo—with a higher incidence of elective care. The findings underscore the influence of demographic factors and healthcare organization on the epidemiological profile of these diseases. Moreover, they emphasize the importance of respiratory physiotherapy in the postoperative period of cholecystectomy, contributing to the prevention of pulmonary complications, functional recovery, reduced hospital stays, and improved clinical outcomes, while highlighting the need for integration among epidemiological surveillance, multidisciplinary care, and health service planning to enhance patient care quality.