Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 1, 2026
17:42
A Method for Murine Islet Isolation and Subcapsular Kidney Transplantation
Published on: April 13, 2011
65.9K
Subcapsular haematoma following laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Brian M Moloney, Niamh Hennessy1, Eoin O Malley2
1Department of Surgery, Portiuncula University Hospital, Saolta University Healthcare Group, Galway, Ireland.
BJR Case Reports
|October 27, 2018
Summary
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy can rarely cause intrahepatic subcapsular hematomas. Prompt imaging and patient monitoring are crucial for diagnosing and managing this rare complication after gallbladder surgery.
Area of Science:
- Hepatobiliary Surgery
- Surgical Complications
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the standard surgical treatment for symptomatic gallbladder disease.
- LC offers reduced morbidity, mortality, and hospital stay compared to open surgery.
- Intrahepatic subcapsular hematoma (ISH) is a rare but serious complication of LC.
Observation:
- A 34-year-old female presented with severe abdominal pain and tachycardia 2 hours post-LC.
- Initial ultrasonography revealed an echogenic collection near the gallbladder fossa.
- Laparoscopy confirmed an ISH involving both liver lobes without other intra-abdominal bleeding.
Findings:
- Triphasic CT scan identified a large ISH and a hypervascular liver lesion.
- The lesion showed delayed contrast enhancement, suggesting a hepatic hemangioma.
- Imaging was critical for differentiating the hematoma from other potential causes of postoperative pain.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of vigilant postoperative monitoring in patients undergoing LC.
- Advanced imaging techniques (ultrasound, CT) play a vital role in diagnosing and characterizing rare postoperative complications like ISH.
- Early detection and accurate characterization of ISH and associated liver lesions are essential for effective patient management.
