Interventional radiology-operated percutaneous cholecystoscopy with ultrasonic lithotripsy and stone basket retrieval: A treatment for symptomatic cholelithiasis in non-operative candidates.

Interventional radiology-operated percutaneous endoscopy has seen a recent resurgence with potential to return to the scope of Interventional Radiology practice. Endoscopy adds a new dimension to the Interventional Radiology armamentarium by offering a unique opportunity to diagnose and treat conditions under direct visualization with improved maneuverability. Cholecystoscopy (gallbladder endoscopy), as a method for percutaneous removal of gallstones, is an effective treatment option in patients with symptomatic cholelithiasis who are poor candidates for surgical cholecystectomy. This article presents a case of Interventional Radiology-operated cholecystoscopy using ultrasonic lithotripsy and stone basket retrieval with an emphasis on the equipment, technique, and peri-procedural management essential to the procedure, as well as a review of the literature.