Learn about Cholecystostomy Treatment in South Korea — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Cholecystostomy and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Cholecystostomy

Cholecystostomy is a minimally invasive procedure performed by a Surgical Gastroenterologist to drain the gallbladder when it is acutely inflamed or infected, typically due to gallstones or cholecystitis. It involves inserting a drainage tube (catheter) through the skin directly into the gallbladder under imaging guidance like ultrasound or CT scan. This procedure is often a temporary, life-saving measure for critically ill or high-risk patients who are not immediate candidates for definitive gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy). It helps relieve pressure, drain infected bile, and control sepsis, allowing the patient's condition to stabilize. Cholecystostomy is a crucial intervention in managing complicated gallbladder disease, providing a bridge to safer, elective surgery later.

Key Highlights

    Minimally invasive procedure with small incision.Provides rapid relief from gallbladder pressure and infection.Can be a life-saving intervention for critically ill patients.Performed under local anesthesia, reducing risks associated with general anesthesia.Serves as a bridge to definitive surgery (cholecystectomy) when the patient is stable.Typically guided by real-time imaging (ultrasound/CT) for precision./ul

Who is this surgery for?

  • Acute calculous or acalculous cholecystitis in a critically ill patient.
  • Empyema (pus-filled) or gangrenous gallbladder.
  • Patients with severe sepsis or organ failure from gallbladder infection.
  • High surgical risk patients (e.g., with severe heart, lung, or liver disease) who cannot undergo immediate cholecystectomy.
  • As a palliative procedure for inoperable gallbladder cancer causing obstruction.
  • Complications of gallstones like perforation or abscess formation.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive medical evaluation including blood tests and imaging (ultrasound/CT).
  • Review of patient's medications; may need to adjust blood thinners.
  • Informed consent process explaining the procedure, risks, and alternatives.
  • Fasting for several hours before the procedure as advised.
  • Administration of intravenous antibiotics to control infection.
  • Establishment of IV access for fluids and medications.

Risks & possible complications

  • Bleeding or hematoma at the puncture site.
  • Infection at the catheter site or within the abdomen.
  • Injury to nearby organs like the liver, intestines, or blood vessels.
  • Bile leakage into the abdomen (bile peritonitis).
  • Catheter dislodgement, blockage, or malfunction.
  • Reaction to contrast dye or local anesthetic.
  • Failure to adequately drain the gallbladder.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial monitoring in a recovery area for vital signs and pain control.
  • The drainage catheter remains in place for several days to weeks until infection resolves.
  • Instructions on caring for the catheter and drainage bag at home.
  • Prescription of pain medications and a course of antibiotics.
  • Follow-up appointments to monitor drainage and plan for eventual cholecystectomy.
  • Gradual return to normal activities, avoiding heavy lifting while the catheter is in place.
  • Dietary advice, often starting with clear liquids and advancing as tolerated.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 3-7 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 1-2 weeks (with catheter), 4-6 weeks for full recovery post-definitive surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering cholecystostomy in South Korea, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for cholecystostomy compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
United Arab Emirates USD 945 – USD 2,835 3-7 days ~ 1-2 weeks (with catheter), 4-6 weeks for full recovery post-definitive surgery Know More
Thailand USD 960 – USD 2,880 3-7 days ~ 1-2 weeks (with catheter), 4-6 weeks for full recovery post-definitive surgery Know More
South Korea USD 960 – USD 2,880 3-7 days ~ 1-2 weeks (with catheter), 4-6 weeks for full recovery post-definitive surgery Know More
India USD 546 – USD 1,637 3-7 days ~ 1-2 weeks (with catheter), 4-6 weeks for full recovery post-definitive surgery Know More
Turkey USD 4,031 – USD 12,093 3-7 days ~ 1-2 weeks (with catheter), 4-6 weeks for full recovery post-definitive surgery Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Dr. surendran r provided exceptional care...

Dr. surendran r provided exceptional care for my surgical gastroenterology condition. The treatment was personalized and effective.