What is a gallbladder (biliary vesicle) that has collapsed?

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Last updated: March 23, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Research

A collapsed gallbladder refers to a condition where the gallbladder appears flattened or contracted rather than maintaining its normal pear-shaped form. This typically occurs when the gallbladder has emptied its bile contents or when there is an obstruction preventing bile from entering the gallbladder. The condition itself is not necessarily a disease but rather a finding that may be observed during imaging studies such as ultrasounds. Common causes include fasting (since the gallbladder naturally contracts after meals to release bile), dehydration, or blockage of the cystic duct by gallstones. A collapsed gallbladder may be asymptomatic or associated with symptoms like right upper quadrant pain, nausea, or vomiting if related to underlying gallbladder disease.

Causes and Symptoms

The causes of a collapsed gallbladder can be varied, including:

  • Fasting, which leads to the gallbladder contracting and emptying its bile contents 1
  • Dehydration
  • Blockage of the cystic duct by gallstones, which can lead to acute cholecystitis, a condition where the gallbladder becomes inflamed 2 Symptoms can range from asymptomatic to severe abdominal pain, especially after eating fatty foods, and may include nausea and vomiting.

Treatment

No specific medication is typically prescribed for a collapsed gallbladder itself, as treatment depends on the underlying cause. If gallstones are present and causing symptoms, surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) might be recommended. Recent studies have shown that subtotal cholecystectomy can be an effective technique for managing difficult gallbladders, reducing the risk of biliary injury 3. Additionally, the combination of percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage and laparoscopic cholecystectomy has been found to be a safe and effective treatment for acute cholecystitis patients 4.

Importance of Medical Evaluation

It's essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation if persistent abdominal pain is experienced, especially after eating fatty foods. The gallbladder stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver, but it's not essential for digestion, which is why people can function normally after its removal. Knowledge of the various presentations of gallbladder conditions, including anomalous positions, can help in avoiding misdiagnosis 5.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.