Laparoscopic cholecystectomy for gallbladder volvulus

Torsion of the gallbladder is a rare entity. Approximately 300 cases have been reported since it was first described in 1898 by Wendel (Ann. Surg. 1898; 27:199). The condition occurs most often in the elderly. Although the etiology is unknown, a constant finding is the presence of the gallbladder on a mobile mesentery ("floating" gallbladder). Torsion, or volvulus, of the gallbladder occurs when this gallbladder twists axially, with subsequent occlusion of bile and/or blood flow. We present a case of gallbladder volvulus diagnosed and treated laparoscopically. This is the first reported laparoscopic cholecystectomy for volvulus of the gallbladder.