Two unusual hemorrhagic complications during laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Two cases are presented that illustrate unusual hemorrhagic complications during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Both areas of bleeding were at a significant distance from the operative site. One was a subcapsular hematoma over the dome of the right lobe of the liver, the other a liver capsule tear on the inferior right lobe. No bleeding was evident at the time of surgery. These complications appear to be an inherent part the laparoscopic method, as they would undoubtedly be recognized and treated during an open cholecystectomy. Etiology, prevention, recognition, and treatment are discussed.