Duplicated gall bladder with gall bladder polyp presenting with cholecystitis: Case report with literature review

Gall bladder anomalies may be in the form of abnormalities in the shape, position, or number. It could be true duplication being completely separated or Y-shaped being united with single cystic duct.

A 38-year-old lady presented with frequent attacks of right hypochondrial pain for the last 4 months. Ultrasound of the abdomen showed distended gall bladder with 1.3 cm gall bladder polyp at the region of the fundus. Decision done for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. During surgery a duplicated gall bladder found with single cystic duct. Successful surgery done and the gall bladder sent for the histopathological examination which showed a benign gall bladder polyp. There were no post-operative complications and the patient discharged on the third days.

Duplicated gall bladder may be diagnosed with ultrasound or magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) which is the investigation of choice however most cases diagnosed intraoperatively. It may be associated with other biliary anomalies. In some occasions a single gall bladder may be removed during the first operation and the second may be missed which require another surgery. In asymptomatic individuals with duplicated gall bladder no specific treatment is required and role of surgery is controversial.

duplicated gall bladder is a rare finding which may be completely asymptomatic. In symptomatic patients specially if associated with gall stones, surgery is required and the surgeon must be aware of any associated biliary anomalies.