Open AccessGas in the bile ducts (pneumobilia) in emphysematous cholecystitis
Author(s) -
WD Harley,
RH Kirkpatrick,
J T Ferrucci
Publication year - 1978
Publication title -
american journal of roentgenology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.294
H-Index - 196
eISSN - 1546-3141
pISSN - 0361-803X
DOI - 10.2214/ajr.131.4.661
Subject(s) - medicine , sphincter of oddi , gallbladder , cystic duct , acute cholecystitis , cholecystitis , lumen (anatomy) , bile duct , radiology , biliary fistula , fistula , gastroenterology
Gas in the biliary ducts (pneumobilia) was demonstrated in three cases of emphysematous cholecystitis. Pneumobilia is usually secondary to a spontaneous internal biliary fistula or incompetent sphincter of Oddi, and is rarely considered a manifestation of emphysematous cholecystitis. The presence of gas in the biliary ducts in these cases suggests that the cystic duct is patent, allowing gas to escape from the gallbladder lumen. The pathophysiology of emphysematous cholecystitis is discussed and an ischemic etiology considered.