Anomalous gallbladder septum—A case report

INTRODUCTION: Anomalies and diseases of the biliary system are common with over 20 million cases of biliary disease and an estimated 1.8 million ambulatory visits each year in the United States. Congenital anomalies of the gallbladder are rare and include complete and partial duplications, floating gallbladders, and agenesis. Septations have also been reported in the literature. Case reports have typically described these as longitudinal. Transverse septa, when reported, are associated with inflammation or cholelithiasis. Variations in the cystic duct and vasculature in the portal triad have also been well described. PRESENTATION OF CASE: During the dissection of a 91-year-old female cadaver, an enlarged gallbladder with a partial transverse septum was observed. The gallbladder contained approximately 350 ml of bile, no stones, and had a partial transverse septum near the infundibulum. The hepatic, cystic, and common bile ducts were enlarged, but of normal configuration. Vascular anomalies were also present, including an accessory left hepatic artery from the left gastric artery and an anomalous origin of the right hepatic artery from the superior mesenteric artery. DISCUSSION: This is the first described case of a partial transverse septum with a markedly enlarged gallbladder, dilated duct system, and vascular anomalies in a patient with no evidence of gallstones, inflammation, or scarring. CONCLUSION: With the prevalence of biliary disease and frequent subsequent surgery it is essential to appreciate all anatomical variations to avoid iatrogenic injuries to these structures during surgery.