Role of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) in a rare biliary tract anomaly and prevention of bile duct injury: a case report

Introduction Anatomical variations of the biliary tract can significantly complicate surgical procedures such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, increasing the risk of iatrogenic bile duct injury. Case description We report the case of a 58-year-old Nepalese female who presented with clinical features of acute cholecystitis. Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) revealed a rare biliary anomaly: the cystic duct drains into the right hepatic duct rather than the common hepatic duct. This finding allowed careful surgical planning and execution to prevent potential bile duct injury. Discussion This case report emphasizes the importance of high vigilance by surgeons for biliary tract anatomical variations and its possible complications, particularly in absence of preoperative imaging or when such anomalies have been identified on imaging to prevent serious complications.