Complicated forms of gallstone disease, including acute cholecystitis, choledocholithiasis, obstructive jaundice, biliary pancreatitis, and gallbladder perforation, remain important causes of morbidity and hospitalization worldwide. Delayed diagnosis may result in severe inflammatory complications, sepsis, and increased mortality. Conventional clinical and laboratory examinations are often insufficient for accurate assessment of disease severity and localization of biliary pathology. Therefore, radiodiagnostic methods play a critical role in detecting structural and functional abnormalities of the biliary system. Advances in imaging technologies have improved diagnostic precision, yet optimization of radiological algorithms remains essential for reducing diagnostic errors and improving patient management.
The aim of the study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of modern radiodiagnostic methods in detecting complicated forms of gallstone disease and to optimize diagnostic strategies for early identification and effective clinical management of biliary complications.
The study included 85 patients aged between 24 and 73 years with clinically suspected complicated gallstone disease. All patients underwent comprehensive clinical examination, laboratory investigations, and radiological assessment. Ultrasonography was used as the primary diagnostic modality to evaluate gallstones, gallbladder wall thickening, bile duct dilatation, and inflammatory changes. Computed tomography was performed to assess pericholecystic inflammation, perforation, abscess formation, and pancreatic involvement. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography was applied for detailed visualization of the biliary tract and identification of common bile duct stones. Diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and overall effectiveness of each imaging modality were analyzed statistically and compared with surgical and clinical findings.
Ultrasonography identified gallstones and inflammatory changes in 91% of cases and demonstrated high effectiveness as an initial diagnostic tool. Computed tomography showed greater sensitivity in detecting complicated inflammatory processes, including gallbladder perforation and pancreatobiliary complications. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography demonstrated the highest diagnostic accuracy for choledocholithiasis and biliary obstruction, reaching 95% sensitivity. Combined application of ultrasonography and MRCP significantly improved overall diagnostic precision and reduced the frequency of false-negative results. Early radiological diagnosis contributed to timely surgical intervention, shorter hospitalization periods, and decreased complication rates.
Radiodiagnostic methods are highly effective in the detection of complicated forms of gallstone disease. The combined use of ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography significantly improves diagnostic accuracy and facilitates early therapeutic decision-making. Optimization of diagnostic algorithms allows earlier identification of biliary complications, reduces the risk of severe outcomes, and improves overall patient prognosis.
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