Septic and other complications resulting from biliary stones placed in the abdominal cavity. Experimental study in rabbits.

BACKGROUND

The aim of this experimental study is to assess the consequences of biliary stones placed in the abdominal cavity of rabbits.

METHODS

The animals were allocated to five groups. In group A a nonsterile gallstone was used. In group B animals with a nonsterile gallstone received preoperative chemoprophylaxis. In group C a sterile stone was placed in the abdomen. Group D served as control. In group E were animals with a nonsterile stone who had a prolonged follow-up period. Parameters studied postoperatively were temperature, white blood cell count, abscess formation, sepsis, peritonitis, adhesion formation, intestinal obstruction, and histological changes of the omentum enveloping the gallstones.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference among the five groups concerning morbidity, mortality, or histological findings.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of septic complications was higher among the four groups that received gallstones compared to the control group and thus an adverse effect of gallstone implantation can be suggested.