Acute abdomen due to spilled gallstones: a diagnostic dilemma 10 years after laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Abstract

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) carries a significant risk of gallbladder perforation and resulting scattering of bile stones into the abdominal cavity. The retrieval of the spilled stones is not always possible by laparoscopic technique. Most cases do not create long-term problems, although some cases may be complicated in future and create uncertainties regarding the correct diagnosis. Diagnosis can be difficult, and in most cases the patient may require open surgery for management of these complications. Herein, we report a case of acute abdomen due to spilled stones occurring 10 years after LC. In the first stage, definitive diagnosis could not be made with computed tomography examination. Finally, the patient was diagnosed with explorative laparotomy.