Torsion of the gallbladder is a rare entity. Approximately 300 cases h
ave been reported since it was first described in 1898 by Wendel (Ann.
Surg. 1898; 27:199). The condition occurs most often in the elderly.
Although the etiology is unknown, a constant finding is the presence o
f the gallbladder on a mobile mesentery (''floating'' gallbladder). To
rsion, or volvulus, of the gallbladder occurs when this gallbladder tw
ists axially, with subsequent occlusion of bile and/or blood flow. We
present a case of gallbladder volvulus diagnosed and treated laparosco
pically. This is the first reported laparoscopic cholecystectomy for v
olvulus of the gallbladder.