Objective: To evaluate the role of multidetector computed tomography (CT) and CT angiography (CTA) in post cholecystectomy complications.
Methods: A retrospective analysis of data from December 2012 to August 2014 was performed. Eight hundred sixty consecutive patients with history of cholecystectomy (laparoscopic or open) were evaluated. After exclusion of 645 patients with normal imaging, analysis for post cholecystectomy complications was performed in 215 patients. A contrast enhanced CT/ CTA was performed. Mean interval to imaging was 10 months (range 3 days to 15 months).
Results: A complication rate of 25% was noted in patients undergoing imaging following cholecystectomy. Gallbladder bed or perihepatic collections were seen in 11.9% cases (n=103). Intrahepatic biliary radicle dilatation (IHBRD) was seen in 7% patients (n=60). Isolated right or left ductal dilatation was seen in 9 patients; rest of the patients had bilateral IHBRD. Cholangitic abscesses and mild acute pancreatitis were seen in 11 (1.2%) and 12 (1.3%) patients respectively. These comprised biliary complications. Venous thrombosis involving the portal vein was the most frequently encountered vascular complication (n=12). Right hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm was seen in two patients. Less common complications were abdominal wall hematoma (n=2), incisional hernia (n=6), port site hernia (n=2), large bowel injury (n=1), biliocutaneous fistula (n=1) and enterocutaneous fistula (n=1).
Conclusion: CT allows classification of post cholecystectomy complications and guides further management. CTA provides an efficient road map for management of vascular complications.