Occult gallbladder perforation: an unusual complication of gallstone lithotripsy

Three days following extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy of a solitary, calcified gallstone, a 69-year-old white male patient was re-admitted with E. coli sepsis and fever of up to 39.4 degrees C. Ultrasound and CT both revealed a smooth-rimmed hypodense paravasate in the middle portion of the left liver lobe adjacent to the gallbladder, with a density identical to gallbladder fluid. The evidence for perforation was based on CT scanning, and a diagnosis of occult gallbladder perforation was made. Conservative treatment was performed successfully. Following elective cholecystectomy two months thereafter, gallbladder histology showed signs of chronic cholecystitis and E. coli was isolated in bile cultures. The paravasate had granulated and finally cicatrized. By combining ESWL and chemical dissolution, treatment of multiple, calcified and pigment gallstones is possible and this approach has become an attractive alternative therapy modality for a selected group of gallstone patients. Further assessments of the efficacy and safety of this technique are necessary. Conservative treatment of occult gallbladder perforation is possible and should be performed in high-risk patients.