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Updated: Jan 1, 2026
04:14
Laparoscopic Choledochal Cyst Excision and Roux-en-Y Choledochojejunostomy in Adults
Published on: February 28, 2025
605
Torsion of the gallbladder.
Elizabeth A Boonstra1, Boudewijn van Etten, Ted R Prins
1Department of Abdominal Surgery, University Medical Centre Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands. e.a.boonstra@chir.umcg.nl
Summary
Gallbladder torsion is a rare condition causing abdominal pain. Consider this diagnosis in cases of cholecystitis without gallstones, especially with concerning imaging findings.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- A 77-year-old female presented with progressive abdominal pain.
- Initial investigations were conducted to determine the cause of her symptoms.
Observation:
- CT scan revealed an enlarged gallbladder extending into the right lower abdomen.
- Ultrasound excluded gallstones, a common cause of gallbladder pathology.
- Laparoscopy identified a torsioned, necrotic gallbladder attached only by the cystic artery and duct.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with gallbladder torsion, a rare surgical emergency.
- Surgical intervention via cholecystectomy was successfully performed.
Implications:
- Gallbladder torsion is an uncommon but critical diagnosis.
- It should be considered in patients presenting with cholecystitis-like symptoms, particularly when gallstones are absent.
- Preoperative diagnosis remains challenging, necessitating high clinical suspicion.
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