Torsion of the gallbladder.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Gallbladder torsion is a rare surgical emergency.
• It is often diagnosed intraoperatively due to low clinical suspicion.

Observation:

• A case of a 77-year-old Japanese woman with gallbladder torsion treated surgically.
• The rarity of the condition often leads to delayed diagnosis.

Findings:

• Preoperative diagnosis of gallbladder torsion is challenging but possible.
• Ultrasonography may be a useful diagnostic tool for identifying gallbladder torsion before surgery.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis of gallbladder torsion can improve patient outcomes.
• Ultrasonography should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal pain, especially in elderly patients.
• Increased awareness and utilization of imaging modalities can aid in the timely surgical management of gallbladder torsion.