Type 1 free perforation of the gallbladder

A series of 4 cases of free perforation of the gallbladder into the peritoneal cavity associated with peritonitis are reported. Two were diagnosed at laparotomy and 2 at post-mortem. The 3 patients who died were men who were either elderly or had serous concomitant diseases, including diabetes, atherosclerosis or alcoholism. The sole survivor was a fit young woman.