Introduction. One of the risk factors for laparoscopic cholecystectomy complications is anatomic variations of biliary system components.
The aim of the study was analysis of literature data and own cases of biliary anatomy variations and taking it into account for cholecystectomy safety.
Materials and methods. The 134 consecutive cases of laparoscopic cholecystectomy operated in “Oberig” Medical Centre were analyzed.
Results. Atypical anatomic variations were detected in 13 (9.7%) from 134 consecutive cholecystectomies. Biliary ducts variations (5.2%): right hepatic duct in the gallbladder bed — 3 cases; low insertion of right posterior section biliary duct (Sg 6–7) with cystic duct insertion — 1 case; intimate adhesion of common hepatic duct and gallbladder neck — 1 case; spiral cystic duct around common hepatic duct — 1 case; short and wide cystic duct — 1 case. Arterial variants (4.5%): double cystic artery — 2 cases; aberrant “caterpillar” right hepatic artery running parallel to cystic duct with short cystic artery — 3 cases; absence of cystic artery — 1 case.
Conclusions. Atypical anatomic variations were detected in 13 (9.7%) from 134 consecutive cholecystectomies. Knowledge of anatomic variations of biliary system and strict following the rules of safe cholecystectomy performance are essential for preventing complications and improving treatment results.