Cholecystostomy

Cholecystostomy: Opening to relieve gallbladder problems

Cholecystostomy is a medical procedure that is performed to relieve problems associated with the gallbladder. It is carried out by creating an artificial opening in the gallbladder, which allows bile to flow directly into the external environment, bypassing the normal path through the bile ducts.

The name "cholecystostomy" comes from the Latin "cholecystostomia", which consists of two components: "cholecysto-", meaning "gall bladder", and "stoma", which translates as "hole". This procedure has become one of the methods of treating and relieving the symptoms of gallbladder diseases.

Cholecystostomy is usually performed when the usual route of removing bile from the gallbladder through the bile ducts is difficult or impossible. This can be caused by various reasons such as a gallstone, tumor, inflammation or other disorders that may block the normal movement of bile.

The cholecystostomy procedure is usually performed using minimally invasive surgical techniques. The surgeon makes a small hole in the patient's abdominal wall and inserts a thin tube called a catheter through the hole and into the gallbladder. The catheter is secured to ensure continuous flow of bile.

A cholecystostomy can be a temporary or permanent procedure, depending on the reason requiring it. A temporary cholecystostomy may be used to relieve symptoms and allow the gallbladder to recover from inflammation or other temporary damage. Permanent cholecystostomy may be necessary if there are irreversible changes in the gallbladder or if other surgical interventions are not possible.

Cholecystostomy is a relatively safe procedure, but like all surgical procedures, it may come with certain risks, such as infection, bleeding, or damage to surrounding tissue. Therefore, it should be carried out under the supervision of experienced medical personnel.

In conclusion, cholecystostomy is a procedure that can be used to relieve problems associated with the gallbladder. It allows bile to bypass the normal path through the bile ducts and flow directly into the external environment. This procedure can be temporary or permanent depending on the specific situation. It is always necessary to consult qualified healthcare personnel to determine the need for and appropriate approach to cholecystostomy.

It is important to note that this article is not a substitute for medical advice or recommendations. If you have problems with your gallbladder or other gallbladder-related conditions, consult your doctor for professional advice and recommendations based on your individual health condition.

Sources:

  1. Søreide K, Hauge T, Norderval S, et al. Cholecystostomy: an evergreen topic? Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med. 2014;22:61. doi:10.1186/s13049-014-0061-6
  2. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Percutaneous cholecystostomy. Published March 2014. Accessed August 10, 2023. [https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ipg468\]
  3. Mayo Clinic. Cholecystostomy (cholecystotomy). Accessed August 10, 2023. [https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cholecystostomy/about/pac-20384806\]


- surgery to create an external fistula in the gallbladder in case of acute or chronic cholecystitis, gallbladder empyema, gallbladder cancer;

Cholecystectomy - removal of the gallbladder Choledoch - duct between the gallbladder and the liver Gallbladder (gall bladder) - a reservoir for storing bile, which is produced by the liver and excreted from the body through the bile ducts (i.e.