Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026
03:56
A Two-Step Method for Percutaneous Transhepatic Choledochoscopic Lithotomy
Published on: September 13, 2022
Dropped gallstones causing transdiaphragmatic migration and thoracic empyema
Eric Bergeron1, Claude Beaulieu, Louise Passerini
1Charles LeMoyne Hospital, Department of Surgery and Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada. eric.bergeron@traumaquebec.org
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|October 24, 2007
Summary
Gallstones migrated through the diaphragm after gallbladder removal, causing a lung infection. Surgical treatment involved draining the chest cavity and removing the infected lung lining.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a common procedure for gallbladder removal.
- Gangrenous cholecystitis is a severe form of gallbladder inflammation.
- Transdiaphragmatic migration of gallstones is a rare complication.
Observation:
- A 72-year-old Asiatic female developed right thoracic empyema post-laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
- The patient's condition was attributed to transdiaphragmatic migration of gallstones.
- Thoracic decortication was performed for treatment.
Findings:
- The case highlights a rare but serious complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
- Gallstone migration can lead to intrathoracic infections like empyema.
- Pathological review and clinical presentation are crucial for diagnosis and management.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering rare complications in post-operative patients.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention are vital for favorable outcomes.
- Further research into preventing gallstone migration post-cholecystectomy may be warranted.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Cholecystitis
Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, most commonly caused by obstruction of the cystic duct. This blockage prevents bile from draining, leading to gallbladder distension, inflammation, and potentially serious complications. This condition may present acutely or chronically and can happen with or without gallstones.EtiologyAbout 95% of cholecystitis cases are calculous, caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct, leading to bile accumulation and inflammation of the gallbladder...
01:25Hiatal Hernia
A hiatal hernia is the abnormal protrusion of the stomach or other abdominal organs through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm into the thoracic cavity.Normally, the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) lies below the diaphragm and is supported by the phrenoesophageal membrane, the diaphragmatic crura, and connective tissues. Weakening of these structures—due to aging, congenital defects like a short esophagus, or increased intra-abdominal pressure from coughing, obesity, pregnancy, or heavy...
01:26Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
Thoracentesis(Thoracocentesis), commonly known as pleural tap, is a medical procedure where a 22 gauge needle is inserted into the pleural space, the area between the lung and chest wall. This procedure is commonly performed to diagnose or treat various respiratory disorders.
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...
01:27Pneumothorax-II
Pneumothorax is a medical condition defined by the buildup of air in the pleural space between the lungs and the chest wall. This accumulation of air can lead to partial or complete lung collapse, resulting in a range of clinical manifestations. Understanding the clinical presentation and effective management strategies is crucial for healthcare professionals in providing timely and appropriate care to individuals with pneumothorax.
Clinical Manifestations:
Clinical Manifestations:
01:22Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction
Esophageal perforation is a severe medical condition characterized by a breach in the integrity of the esophageal wall. This breach can occur due to various factors such as trauma, medical procedures, or underlying diseases. When the esophageal wall is compromised, it allows food, fluids, and digestive juices into the chest cavity or adjacent structures, leading to potential complications and health risks.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
01:19Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...