title: Dropped gallstones: spectrum of imaging findings, complications and diagnostic pitfalls.
abstract: Spillage of gallstones into the abdominal cavity, referred to as "dropped gallstones" (DGs), occurs commonly during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The majority of these spilled stones remain clinically silent; however, if uncomplicated DGs are not correctly identified on subsequent imaging, they may mimic peritoneal implants and cause unduly concern. A small percentage of DGs cause complications, including abscess and fistula formation. Recognising the DG within the abscess is critical for definitive treatment. This pictorial review illustrates the imaging appearances and complications of DGs on CT, MRI and ultrasound and emphasises pitfalls in diagnosis.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Nayak
authors.forename: C O
authors.initials: CO
authors.lastname: Menias
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Gayer
mesh_terms: D034841:Abdominal Cavity / Q000601:surgery; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D042882:Gallstones / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014463:Ultrasonography