ULTRASOUND-GUIDED PUNCTURE OF THE GALLBLADDER FOR ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS

In 18 high-risk patients with acute cholecystitis and severe concurren t disease, we aspirated the gallbladder by using a percutaneous techni que under ultrasound guidance. 17 of the 18 improved after aspiration, the only complication being local pain in 2.13 of the 17 who improved remained free from biliary infections during a mean follow-up period of 14 months. 4 had an uncomplicated cholecystectomy 6-10 weeks later for recurrent cholecystitis. Percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder asp iration is a safe and effective procedure in critically ill patients w ith acute cholecystitis.