Correlation of biliary colic in the absence of cholelithiasis with pancreaticobiliary obstruction

Abstract

A small fraction of patients undergoing cholecystectomy for biliary colic are subsequently diagnosed with an obstructive pancreatic head mass. We review our experience with such patients to provide insight into improving evaluation before cholecystectomy. Retrospective chart review of patients undergoing cholecystectomy from 2004 to 2015 identified six patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy for biliary colic before being diagnosed with a pancreatic head neoplasm within six months after cholecystectomy. Charts were analyzed for presenting symptoms, evaluation before and after cholecystectomy, and operative findings. Patients ranged from 50 to 72 years of age and included five males and one female. None had evidence of cholelithiasis or acute cholecystitis on initial evaluation. Median time from cholecystectomy to diagnosis of pancreatic head mass was two months (range 1–5 months). Two patients eventually underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy. Patients with symptoms of biliary colic in the absence of evidence of cholecystitis or choledochal abnormality should undergo intraoperative cholangiogram at the time of cholecystectomy as well as close clinical follow-up to ensure resolution of symptoms. Abnormalities of either should prompt radiographic evaluation focused on identification of a pancreatic mass causing extrinsic compression of the bile duct.