[The free gallbladder perforation]

15 cases of free gallbladder-perforation among 3,950 cholezystectomies during the last 15 years are discussed. There was no difference in the sex-distribution. The average age was 67 years. This factor together with delay of the operation because of atypical symptoms and perhaps a toxic agens in the gall are responsible for the high mortality of 26-70 p.c. Nearly always are gallstones and inflammation present. Therefore 2 consequences are made: 1) Acute cholecystitis with signs of diffuse peritonitis: Operation at once, otherwise during the first 3-5 days after preparation. 2) Widened indication for cholecystectomy by gallstone-illness is recommended.