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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
05:50
Gastric Point of Care Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition and Interpretation
Published on: September 22, 2023
An abdominal mass
Giuseppe R Nigri1, Paolo Aurello, Giovanni Ramacciato
1St. Andrea Hospital, Department of Surgery, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy. giuseppe.nigri@uniroma1.it
Summary
Percutaneous drainage of gallbladder empyema is an effective treatment for elderly patients with severe comorbidities. This minimally invasive approach offers rapid recovery and pain relief, avoiding surgery.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Interventional Radiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- A 93-year-old female patient presented with symptoms indicative of a serious abdominal condition.
- She had multiple life-threatening comorbidities, complicating treatment options.
- Diagnostic imaging revealed gallbladder empyema with a large obstructing stone.
Observation:
- Given the patient's advanced age and critical health status, surgical intervention was deemed too high-risk.
- A percutaneous drainage of the gallbladder empyema was performed under ultrasound (US) guidance.
- This minimally invasive procedure was chosen as a safer alternative to traditional surgery.
Findings:
- The percutaneous drainage successfully removed the infected bile from the gallbladder.
- The patient experienced immediate and significant relief from abdominal pain post-procedure.
- She demonstrated a rapid and complete recovery without surgical complications.
Implications:
- Percutaneous gallbladder empyema drainage is a viable and effective treatment modality.
- It serves as a crucial alternative for patients with severe comorbidities who are not surgical candidates.
- This approach enhances patient outcomes by providing timely and less invasive management.
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