Cholecystocentesis is the aspiration sampling of gallbladder bile; this can be completed using a percutaneous ultrasound-guided approach, by laparoscopic-assistance, or during exploratory abdominal surgery. Samples of bile are collected for cytologic investigation and bacterial culture. Complications of cholecystocentesis include intraperitoneal bile leakage, hemorrhage, hemobilia, bacteremia, and vasovagal reaction that may result in ventilatory arrest, severe bradycardia, and death. If a gallbladder mucocele or EHBDO are suspected, cholecystocentesis is contraindicated.

Last full review/revision March 2012 by Sharon A. Center, DVM, DACVIM