Cholecystopleural fistula treated by laparoscopy: case report

Area of Science:

• Surgical Case Reports
• Gastroenterology
• Abdominal Surgery

Background:

• Gallbladder perforation is classified by Neimeier into three types based on the extent of biliary spillage and associated inflammation.
• Type 1 involves a fistula between the gallbladder and adjacent viscera.
• Cholecystopleural fistula, a rare presentation of gallbladder perforation, can lead to empyema and pleural effusion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case of Neimeier's type 1 gallbladder perforation.
• To discuss the surgical management of a cholecystopleural fistula.
• To evaluate the efficacy of laparoscopic surgery for this rare condition.

Main Methods:

• A 72-year-old male patient with cholecystolithiasis and empyema secondary to a cholecystopleural fistula was treated.
• Laparoscopic surgery was performed due to its known benefits of reduced complications and shorter hospital stays.
• The surgical procedure was completed without any intraoperative or postoperative complications.

Main Results:

• Successful laparoscopic management of a Neimeier's type 1 gallbladder perforation (cholecystopleural fistula).
• The patient experienced a favorable outcome with no complications.
• Demonstrated the feasibility and safety of a minimally invasive approach for this rare condition.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic surgery is a viable and safe option for treating Neimeier's type 1 gallbladder perforation, specifically cholecystopleural fistula.
• This case highlights the importance of considering rare presentations of gallbladder pathology.
• Further research is warranted to establish surgical preferences for such uncommon cases.