Ultrasound image of the gallbladder fossa after cholecystectomy in the immediate postoperative period

70 patients clinically classified as n.a.d. were sonographically examined for evaluation of the gallbladder fossa within two weeks after cholecystectomy. Four marked signs were noted. In 35 patients (50%) we found homogeneous echogenic formations of triangular, band-like, or oval shape in the bed of the gallbladder. In 25 cases (35.7%) inhomogeneous structures were seen. In 6 cases (8.5%) cystic structures resembling the normal gallbladder were seen which were interpreted as representing seromas or liquified haematomas. In 4 patients (5.7%) the bed of the gallbladder was entirely normal. Whether the gallbladder bed was closed by sutures or not, had no statistically significant effect on ultrasound appearance.