Acute cholecystitis in H-type duplicated gallbladder: a case report.

Gallbladder duplication is a rare congenital anomaly. Abnormal biliary anatomy is associated with an increased risk of complications, such as bile duct injury, during cholecystectomy. In this article, we present a clinical case of gallbladder duplication identified preoperatively by magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, which guided surgical planning. A 70-year-old man was admitted with acute cholecystitis, low-grade fever, jaundice, and dyspnea. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography revealed a duplicated gallbladder (Type H). During surgery, the chronically inflamed upper gallbladder was completely resected. The larger lower gallbladder, with acute cholecystitis and a Mirizzi-like pattern, was partially resected due to severe inflammation and the inability to identify the cystic duct. The patient had an uneventful course. Gallbladder duplication is a rare congenital anomaly that may be associated with other congenital anomalies. Thorough preoperative imaging studies, meticulous surgical technique, and rigorous intraoperative monitoring are essential, as these abnormalities can lead to serious injuries.