Extensive retroperitoneal multiloculated abscesses after open cholecystectomy associated with bile leak: a case report

Retroperitoneal abscesses are rare and life-threatening. The incidence of abscesses after open cholecystectomies is <1% disregarding location. 11 cases reporting post-cholecystectomy retroperitoneal abscesses were archived on PubMed, 7 associated with gallstone retaining or spillage. Hereby, we present a case of extensive retroperitoneal multiloculated abscesses after open cholecystectomy complicated with bile leak, while no gallstone was noted. Early evaluation for retroperitoneal abscesses is critical if the patient does not clinically improve after cholecystectomy. Early treatment with drainage of the abscesses, antibiotics, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography intervention to achieve source control can greatly improve the clinical outcome.