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.
[Acta Inform Med 2025; 33(1.000): 79-81]

subtotal cholecystectomy, completion cholecystectomy, laparoscopic, post-cholecystectomy syndrome