Liver fibrosis after extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy of gallbladder stones. A case report

Surg Endosc. 1994 Nov;8(11):1335-7. doi: 10.1007/BF00188295.

Abstract

We encountered significant liver fibrosis in a healthy young patient undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy for symptomatic gallstone disease. Twelve months prior to cholecystectomy the patient underwent multiple extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL) sessions with adjuvant oral bile-acid therapy. Since the site of fibrosis corresponded clearly to the shock-wave transmission path, which was in accordance with animal studies, it was concluded that this liver fibrosis was a side effect of biliary ESWL. Based on these findings and the literature, we conclude that further assessment of the long-term safety of ESWL is still warranted, especially in patients undergoing multiple ESWL sessions.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cholelithiasis / therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lithotripsy / adverse effects*
  • Liver Cirrhosis / etiology*