Acute acalculous cholecystitis following coronary artery bypass surgery

Abstract

Background: Significant gastrointestinal complications following cardiac surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) are relatively infrequent but are associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Acute acalculous cholecystitis (AAC) may be a devastating complication if the diagnosis is missed or management delayed.

Aim: We present two cases of AAC that followed coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

Results: In one case a cholecystectomy was performed whereas percutaneous drainage was utilised in the second case. The application of these two different individualised treatment options lead to successful outcomes in both cases.

Conclusion: Awareness with vigilance enables early diagnosis and treatment. The clinical state of the patient at the time of diagnosis ultimately determines the management strategy in the post cardiac surgery patient.