Beware of the porcelain gallbladder during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Technical problems of retraction and hemorrhage during laparoscopic removal of a porcelain gallbladder are described. Although laparoscopic cholecystectomy was successful, a blood transfusion was required. We believe that porcelain gallbladder is a relative contraindication to laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The merits of plain radiography, computed tomography, and ultrasound in making the diagnosis are also discussed.
Welch
N T
NT
Creighton University, School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Omaha, Nebraska 68131.
Fitzgibbons
R J
RJ
Hinder
R A
RA
D016063:Blood Loss, Surgical; D001803:Blood Transfusion; D002114:Calcinosis / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D017081:Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic / Q000379:methods; D000075202:Contraindications; D004210:Dissection; D005260:Female; D005705:Gallbladder Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D006488:Hemostasis, Surgical; D006801:Humans; D007431:Intraoperative Complications; D008875:Middle Aged