Ultrassonografia e tomografia computadorizada como métodos para avaliação de quadro da colecistite aguda

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: The gallbladder is an organ located in the right hypochondrium of the abdomen just below the liver, it stores bile: the liquid responsible for helping to digest fats. Cholecystitis is the inflammatory process of the gallbladder arising from the presence or absence of gallstones, with asymptomatic cases as well as patients presenting very particular symptoms. Cholelithiasis or biliary lithiasis is characterized by a very common disease in the world population, affecting around 10% to 20% of individuals across the globe. Objective: To analyze the accuracy of computed tomography and ultrasound for evaluating complications of biliary cholecystitis, addressing the advantages of tomography as a differential diagnosis. Methodology: A systematic review was carried out, based on scientific articles in the following databases: National Library of Medicine (PubMed MEDLINE), Virtual Health Library (VHL) and Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO). The following descriptors were used for the research: Cholelithiasis; Gallbladder; Acute cholecystitis; Complications; Computed tomography. Nine articles were chosen to compose the work. Discussion: Ultrasound examination is extensive, has a relatively lower cost, and is recommended in the emergency room for patients suspected of having biliary liver disease. Ultrasonography should be performed whenever the disease is suspected, and should be the first test to be requested. The use of computed tomography is indicated when the ultrasound result is not clear, or there is suspicion of involvement of other organs. Tomographic examination of the abdomen is considered an alternative option to further investigate the pathology. Conclusion: Abdominal ultrasound is the gold standard test for the initial diagnosis of cholelithiasis. CT would be an alternative for better diagnostic accuracy, due to its specificity and sensitivity.