Cholecystosonography for the diagnosis of cholecystolithiasis

Abstract

The gallbladder can be visualized by ultrasound (cholecystosonography) and gallstones seen as echo producing densities. Under cholecystosonographic observation the gallbladder can be demonstrated to contract following stimulation by cholecystokinin. This establishes patency of the cystic duct and excludes a diagnosis of acute obstructive cholecystopathy. The gallbladder has been identified in 84 of 86 patients. Stones have been identified sonographically in 64% of 42 patients with proven gallstones (75% of the last 20 cases). The gallbladder contracted following stimulation in 18 of 20 cases with a patent cystic duct. Cholecystosonography is simple, safe and economical. Cholecystonography with cholecystokinin stimulation is the first diagnostic study to be performed when cholecystolithiasis is suspected and the following circumstances exists: a) an acute right upper quadrant (RUQ) syndrome consistant with acute obstructive cholecystopathy. b) cholestasis or hepatic dysfunction. c) a history of allergy to contrast media. Cholecystosonography may detect gallstones in a gallbladder visualized by oral cholangiography when stones are of the same density as the contrast media.