[Rheologic properties of bile and their possible significance for lithogenesis]

In the sparse literature dealing with the rheological characterization of bile You can find supporters of the Newtonian and the Maxwell flow behaviour theories. The submitted examinations of 33 bile specimens sampled postoperatively by T-drainages were carried out with the help of a Contraves-Low-Shear-Viscometer. They definitely show the bile fluid's exponential increase in absolute dynamic viscosity under low shear conditions. Consequently bile behaves like a Maxwell (= Non-Newtonian) fluid, especially considering the variously caused pathological retardation of bile flow. This fact may play a decisive role in fostering lithogenesis. The classification of bile as a fluid with Maxwell behaviour is probably a pathophysiologically important fact with respect to cholelithogenesis and offers a model for further discussion on the prevention of recurrent biliary tract concrements formation.