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. 2009 Apr 29:2:6641.
doi: 10.1186/1757-1626-0002-0000006641.

Acute torsion of the gallbladder: a case report

Kenan Caliskan  1 , Alper Parlakgumus, Zafer Koc, Tarik Zafer Nursal
Affiliations

Acute torsion of the gallbladder: a case report

Kenan Caliskan et al. Cases J. .

Abstract

Introduction: Torsion of gallbladder is an uncommon cause of acute abdomen. Volvulus occurs along the long axis of the gallbladder mesentery, and according to the degree of rotation symptoms, and signs may vary.

Case presentation: A 79-year-old woman presented with a one-day history of acute onset of right upper abdominal pain. The patient underwent laparotomy with a preoperative diagnosis of acalculous cholecystitis with possible gangrene. At laparotomy, the gallbladder was distended, and multiple necrotic areas were observed. It was rotated more than 180 degrees clockwise around the mesentery, and cholecystectomy was performed.

Conclusion: Cholecystectomy is the treatment of gallbladder torsion. Clinical signs and radiographic studies may be helpful to diagnose gallbladder torsion. Early diagnosis and surgical treatment lower the mortality of disease.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Contrast enhanced computed tomographic images show; loss of integrity of gallbladder wall (arrows). Diffuse thickening of the gastric antral wall (thin arrows). (b) CT image obtained upper level showed fluid collection (arrows) and well-enhanced curvilinear structure on the right side of the GB indicating cystic duct located on the right side of the gallbladder (thin arrow).
Figure 2
Figure 2
The gallbladder was rotated more than 180 degrees clockwise around its mesentery. GB: gallbladder, CD: cystic duct, CA: cystic artery.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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