Gallbladder duplication and laparoscopic management

Gallbladder duplication can present a significant challenge to the laparoscopic surgeon, primarily due to difficulties with diagnosis and recognition. Previous reports of attempted laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with gallbladder duplication resulted in incomplete or staged multiple procedures. The case report of a 35-year-old woman with successful laparoscopic management of symptomatic gallbladder duplication is described, emphasizing several important considerations. Preoperatively when evaluating radiologic studies a high index of suspicion is necessary in interpreting atypical findings. To further evaluate these abnormalities, liberal use of preoperative ERCP is helpful, and specific endoscopic techniques may be necessary as well. Intraoperatively, the findings may be confusing, and cholangiography can help clarify ductular anomalies, especially if the gallbladder duplication is contained within a common serosal coat. Missing a second gallbladder can result in persistent symptoms postoperatively necessitating further surgery. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the management of gallbladder duplication can be safely done and an awareness is necessary to avoid complications or multiple procedures.