Laparoscopic Completion Cholecystectomy for Symptomatic Remnant Gallbladder Following Subtotal Cholecystectomy: a Report of Two Cases

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.