Torsion of the gallbladder: a rare cause of acute cholecystitis.

We present a case of acute torsion of the gallbladder in a young woman. Approximately 400 cases have been reported since 1898, mostly in elderly women, and the incidence appears to be increasing. The anatomy and pathophysiology that predispose patients to this rare surgical emergency are discussed. Several clinical and imaging findings can be used to distinguish gallbladder torsion from typical acute cholecystitis. By recognizing and treating gallbladder torsion early in its course, a low surgical morbidity and mortality can be achieved. The case presented highlights for emergency physicians some of the considerations in identification of patients with acute cholecystitis who are at highest risk of gangrene and perforation, their emergency treatment, and the timing of surgery.

Abdominal compartment syndrome as a consequence of rectus sheath hematoma.

Abdominal compartment syndrome is a well-documented entity arising from multiple and various causes. The rise of intra-abdominal pressure by the increase in volume of the peritoneal and retroperitoneal contents has been shown in the resuscitation and evaluation of surgical patients. However, the incidence of constriction of the abdomen causing intra-abdominal hypertension is unknown. Previously limited to burn eschar and externally applied devices (such as MAST trousers), external compression leading to abdominal compartment syndrome has been a limited entity. We report the first documented case of an expansive abdominal wall mass, a rectus sheath hematoma, leading to impending abdominal compartment syndrome.