Torsion of gall bladder, a rare entity: a case report and review article

Abstract

Gallbladder torsion is a rare entity, which is often difficult to diagnose preoperatively. Since its first description in 1898 by Wendel, there have been over 500 documented cases in the literature. It is defined as rotation of the gallbladder on its mesentery along the axis of the cystic duct and cystic artery. Gallbladder torsion is more frequently encountered in the elderly with peak incidence in the 65-75 year old group, and a 3:1 female predominance. Gallbladder torsion typically presents as an acute abdomen requiring emergency surgery, and most cases are found as a surprise at surgery since preoperative diagnosis of gallbladder torsion is difficult. We report a case of acute gallbladder torsion in an elderly male and review the clinical aspect of gallbladder torsion.