[Evaluation of gallbladder volume and motility with echotomography]

The gallbladder volume has been evaluated in 22 normal volunteer subjects (12 men and 10 women) by the real time ultrasound B scanning, using the formula V = 1/6 abc (a = length; b = width, c = antero-posterior diameter). The fasting GB volume, the residual GB volume after Bronner's meal (every 15 min. for 90 min.) and the maximum emptying (%) were evaluated in each subject. It was not observed any statistically significative difference between the two groups (fasting volume: 18.5 +/- 6.0 ml in men and 15.2 +/- 5.1 ml in women; residual volume: 4.3 +/- 1.5 ml in men and 3.5 +/- 1.3 ml in women). The maximum GB emptying in women occurs later. In order to verify its reproducibility, the experience has been repeated in two different days in seven men without any statistically significative difference.