A case report reveals gallbladder volvulus diagnosis challenges in elderly patients, indicating the need for prompt surgical intervention.
Introduction: Gallbladder volvulus (GV) is a rare surgical entity marked by torsion of the gallbladder on its axis secondary to mesenteric anomalies. Due to its clinical similarity to acute cholecystitis and preoperative diagnosis is difficult. Clinical case: A 79-year-old female with cardiovascular comorbidities presented with sudden abdominal pain and emesis. Initial laboratory examination tests showed leukocytosis and hyperbilirubinemia, while ultrasound suggested acute cholecystitis. Due to persistent symptoms and the development of a palpable mass, the patient underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Intraoperatively, a gangrenous gallbladder secondary to complete volvulus was identified. Results: The gallbladder was detorsed and resected without complications. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharge on the third day. Conclusion: GV should be suspected in elderly patients presenting with atypical biliary symptoms and a “floating gallbladder” on imaging. Early surgical intervention via laparoscopic cholecystectomy is essential to prevent life-threatening complications such as perforation and peritonitis.
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Uribe et al. (2026) studied this question.
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