Gallbladder

Abstract

The endodermal diverticulum of the caudal foregut develops into the GB. The GB lies between liver segments 4B and 5 and is supplied by the cystic artery. Cholecystokinin and vagal stimulation result in GB contraction, delivering bile (synthesized in the liver) into the duodenum. More than 80% of gallstones (cholelithiasis) are of the cholesterol type. Porcelain GBs can be seen on plain radiographs. Unless GB cancer is suspected preoperatively, or dense adhesions are likely, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the operation of choice. Injury to the CBD (0.5%), duodenum, and liver parenchyma is uncommon but is a serious complication.