Management of chylous ascites after laparoscopic cholecystectomy using minimally invasive techniques: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Chylous ascites is a rare complication after many abdominal procedures. It has never been reported after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. We describe a 31-year-old female who presented 2 weeks postoperatively after laparoscopic cholecystectomy with abdominal distention and pain. A percutaneously drained abdominal fluid collection revealed chylous ascites. Lymphoscintigraphy demonstrated extravasation at the level of the hepatic fossa. At laparoscopic exploration, a chylous leak within the gallbladder fossa was controlled with suture ligation and fibrin glue with immediate resolution of the leak. This demonstrates a novel, minimally invasive technique for control of a previously unreported complication after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.