The purpose of this document is to ensure all gallbladder specimens are described and dissected properly so that a diagnosis can be issued . Please refer to local standard operating procedures (SOP) for complete details.
(NOTE: You can view 3D models in larger format by clicking on the "fullscreen" icon at the bottom right.)
A gallbladder is a common specimen typically removed for chronic cholecystitis and cholelithiasis. Neoplasms of the gallbladder are uncommon.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy are frequent procedure. A gallbladder can be received fragmented or opened at the time of surgery.
3D model provides an anatomic representation of a typical cholecystectomy specimen
Orient the specimen by distinguishing the serosal surface from the adventitial margin/surface (adherence to the liver).
Identify cystic duct margin (often adjacent to clipped cystic artery)
Ink adventitial margin blue.
Describe the gallbladder in accordance with the SOP template. Typical parameters include:
Specimen intactness (opened, fragmented, or intact)
Dimensions (cm)
Serosal quality
Lumen contents (including bile, mucus, pus, calculi)
Wall thickness (cm) and presence of wall calcifications
Mucosal quality
Presence of polyps or tumours
Opened gallbladder example shows normal velvety mucosal surface without identifiable pathologies.