Implant metastasis of gallbladder carcinoma in situ in a cholecystectomy scar: a case report.

A subcutaneous mass within the scar left by cholecystectomy with common bile duct exploration and T-tube drainage developed 6 years after surgery. Pathologic examination of this mass showed features of atypical villous hyperplasia, similar to that identified within the previously removed gallbladder, but with additional foci of carcinoma in situ. Since excision of the mass, the patient has had persistent fluid collections requiring frequent aspiration. Cytologic analysis of the fluid has revealed tumor cells. The cause of this spread has been unclear. Few literature reports have identified biliary drainage techniques as a source for metastatic seeding. The malignant or metastatic potential of severe dysplasia or carcinoma in situ of the gallbladder associated with T-tube drainage and implantation in the drainage tract is previously unreported.