Abstract

Background: Subtotal cholecystectomy (SC) is considered a safe option for a bailout in the presence of a difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy with a low incidence of complications. Objective: This report aims to describe the challenges in diagnosing and managing remnant gallbladder. Case presentation: Case 1 is a 31-year-old male who presented with right upper quadrant abdominal pain ten years following SC. Abdominal ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT) scan confirmed a ruminant gallbladder. He underwent successful completion of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Case 2 is a 40-year-old male who was admitted as a case of ascending cholangitis. He had a history of subtotal cholecystectomy one year prior to his presentation. CT scan, Magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRCP), and US all confirmed the presence of a remnant gallbladder. The patient underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), followed by the completion of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Conclusion: Recurring symptoms due to the remnant gallbladder are often challenging to diagnose and treat. Herein, we highlight the importance of adequate preoperative investigations and surgical planning prior to intervention.

Key words: subtotal cholecystectomy, completion cholecystectomy, laparoscopic, post-cholecystectomy syndrome.