Peritoneal lavage for treatment of bile leak complicating laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Summary

Leakage of bile following cholecystectomy can cause severe pain and necessitate further operation for satisfactory drainage. We have managed three such cases by percutaneous insertion of two drains, allowing continuous peritoneal lavage, with rapid symptomatic improvement. The technique has the theoretical advantages of diluting the bile to reduce infection, while maintaining the principles of a minimally invasive approach and is advocated in patients with severe pain from bile leaks following laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Key Words:

• bile leak
• laparoscopic cholecystectomy
• ERCP
• ultrasound scan