Abstract
Background: Although early cholecystectomy is the standard treatment in case of acute cholecystitis, the morbidity in patients at high risk for surgery is high.
Patients and methods: Between Jan. 2002 and Dec. 2006, 134 consecutive patients with acute cholecystitis who underwent percutaneous cholecystostomy were enrolled in this study. The technical success rate, clinical response rate, and incidence of complications were evaluated.
Results: PC was technically successful in all patients. Good clinical response was obtained in 90%. Dislodgment of catheter was observed in 2.2%. Mortality rate was 2.2%. Cholecystectomy was performed in 99 patients. The incidence of conversion to open procedure was 16% in the laparoscopic group.
Conclusion: Percutaneous cholecystostomy is a safe, effective procedure for selected patients with acute cholecystitis who cannot immediately undergo cholecystectomy.
