Gallbadder Volvulus: A Rare Cause of Acute Cholecystitis

Abstract

Gallbladder volvulus is a rare cause of acute cholecystitis and is due to the torsion of the gallbladder along its pedicle. The diagnosis of gallbladder volvulus is often made intra-operatively and therefore failure to recognize the condition pre-operatively may lead to delay in definitive management. This case report presents a 95-year-old female patient admitted to a regional hospital with acute right upper quadrant pain. The patient was taken to theatre and on laparoscopy was found to have a gangrenous gallbladder twisted along its pedicle. A laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed and the patient was successfully treated. Awareness of this rare entity and prompt surgical intervention is required to limit the potential morbidity and mortality.