Percutaneous cholecystostomy: safety of the transperitoneal route.

PURPOSE: The authors analyzed the safety and efficacy of transperitoneal percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) in patients with acute cholecystitis.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Thirty-four consecutive patients underwent transperitoneal PC for treatment of acute cholecystitis. A trocar technique was used for placement of the drainage catheter.

RESULTS

PC was technically successful in all patients. In 27 (79%) of 34 patients, symptoms of acute cholecystitis resolved within 7 days. Minor complications occurred in two patients (5%). Both patients developed a hematoma adjacent to the gallbladder; these resolved without treatment. No cases of bile leak or bile peritonitis occurred.

CONCLUSION

The transperitoneal route is safe and effective for PC.