Abstract
The incidence of biloma formation after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is, in the early experience of many centres, significantly higher than after open cholecystectomy. We describe four cases representative of the possible spectrum of post-LC bile leaks and review the literature regarding the radiologic investigation and management of this complication. We suggest that post-LC bilomas should initially be drained percutaneously. Endoscopic cholangiography (ERC) should then be used to identify the source of the leak, but sphincterotomy and/or stent placement may be best reserved for those whose leaks do not resolve after 10 days of free drainage. Surgery is recommended only for major biliary injury and for leaks that remain unresolved after sphincterotomy and/or stenting. An algorithmic summary of this approach is presented.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
