Cholecystostomy
- Ultrasound is the most common imaging modality used to localize the gallbladder and assist in incision placement planning. CT and CT fluoroscopy may also be used.
- Utilizing the open technique, a purse-string suture is typically placed in the fundus of the gallbladder for control prior to trocar placement. This suture may be used to secure the cholecystostomy tube after placement.
- If gallstones are easily visible in the absence of gangrene or empyema, forceps or a scoop may be utilized to remove these stones before cholecystostomy tube placement.
- A 20F or 24F catheter may be used for an open cholecystostomy tube placement—as opposed to an 8F or 10F catheter used with percutaneous cholecystostomy tube placement.