Percutaneous Cholecystostomy Outcomes and Follow-up

Introduction: Percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) is an important alternative to surgical intervention in managing acute cholecystitis (AC) for patients who are not surgical candidates.However, there is a lack of standardised follow-up protocols, resulting in variability in patient management.This study aims to assess outcomes following PC and adherence to a local follow-up algorithm to identify opportunities for standardisation and improvement. Methods: A retrospective single-centre chart review of PC procedures was conducted between 2016 and 2023.Key data points included time to outpatient follow-up, timing and utilisation of Cholecystogram, biliary interventions such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), drain management strategies, and patient outcomes, including recurrence and mortality.Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS v.29.Results: A total of 113 patients met the inclusion criteria.PC was a bridge to surgery in 23.8% (27/113), whereas it served as definitive management in 53.1% (60/113).Drain dislodgement occurred in 37.1% (36/97), and in patients with planned drain removal, the mean indwelling time was 74 days.Pre-outpatient Cholecystogram was performed in 67.3% (37/76).10.6% (12/113) required repeat PC.ERCP was performed in 21.2% (24/113), and the all-cause 90-day mortality rate was 10.6% (12/113). Conclusion:PC remains a valuable intervention for high-risk patients with AC; however, follow-up management varies significantly.The findings of this study underscore the need for standardised follow-up protocols to optimise patient care and outcomes.