EMPYEMA OF THE GALLBLADDER TREATED BY LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY

Patient: A 52-year-old woman with an eight-year history of gallstones who had twice declined to have a cholecystectomy. Clinical features: The patient presented as an emergency with severe abdominal pain, hectic fevers and rigors. Results of examination showed an enlarged, tender and easily palpable gallbladder. A diagnosis of empyema of the gallbladder was made. Interventions: Intravenous administration of antibiotics was started immediately and a laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed 36 hours after admission. Outcome: Postoperative recovery was uncomplicated. The patient was discharged after 72 hours and returned to normal activities within one week. Conclusion: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy seems a useful technique to treat gallbladder disease in emergency as well as elective situations.