Remanente vesicular y conducto cístico remanente como causa del síndrome poscolecistectomía: Revisión narrativa de la literatura

Introduction. Post-cholecystectomy syndrome refers to the presence of symptoms similar to those experienced prior to cholecystectomy. Although extra-biliary causes are more common, organic biliary etiologies, such as a gallbladder remnant and a cystic duct remnant, represent uncommon yet clinically relevant entities. Methods. A narrative review was conducted of literature identified through searches in PubMed, Scopus, SciELO, and Google Scholar, with no time restrictions due to the limited availability of information. The keywords used were: gallbladder remnant, cystic duct remnant, post-cholecystectomy syndrome, stump cholelithiasis, and postcholecystectomy complications. Results. A gallbladder remnant and a cystic duct remnant are associated with residual gallstones, recurrent inflammation, and persistent or delayed biliary symptoms. Anatomical variability and intraoperative technical factors, particularly in difficult or subtotal cholecystectomies, contribute to their occurrence. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography is the diagnostic method of choice, while definitive treatment consists of the surgical excision of the residual tissue, preferably via a laparoscopic approach. Conclusions. A gallbladder remnant and a cystic duct remnant should be considered in patients with persistent biliary symptoms following cholecystectomy. Early recognition and an appropriate diagnostic approach enable definitive treatment and improve clinical outcomes.