AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:

The aim of the study is to analyse the pattern of clinical presentation of biliary tract calculi and its complications.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

All patients with radiological evidence of biliary calculus or its complications, in Mahatma Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute between April 2014 and March 2016 were included in the study. Each patient was subjected to methodical physical examination to assess the general condition and to know the basic vital data on admission. Per abdomen examination was done according to standard protocol in a methodical way and findings documented. The decision made and the outcome at discharge was tabulated. Data was analyzed with descriptive statistics.

 RESULTS:

Mean age was 45.42 years, with 50.31 for males and 43.84 for females. Majority of patients were 30–50 years of age. 94% of cases presented with pain abdomen. Biliary dyspepsia was seen in 74% of cases. Flatulent dyspepsia was present only in 14 of these cases. Cholecystitis was the commonest diagnosis made in 63% of cases, followed by acid peptic disease in 19% of cases. Two mortalities were in patients with acute biliary pancreatitis.

CONCLUSION:

The age incidence was found to be highest between 30 and 50 years, with an average age 45 years. The incidence of cholelithiasis was more in females. Almost all patients present with pain abdomen. Majority of the patients had tenderness in right hypochondrium. Palpable gallbladder is not always malignancy. Ultrasonogram is the imaging modality of choice. Acute pancreatitis is a highly morbid and mortal complication. Open cholecystectomy is the treatment of choice for cholelithiasis in our setup.

Chronic cholecystitis is the commonest histopathology. Asymptomatic gallstones can be left untreated with strict follow up. Mixed stones are the predominant stones.