Preoperative diagnosis of isolated penetrating gallbladder injury in an asymptomatic patient: the role of hepato-iminodiacetic acid scan as the definitive diagnostic test.

The decision for nonoperative treatment of abdominal stab wounds is usually based on clinical examination findings. It is important, however, to identify patients who may suffer occult injuries and, therefore, be benefited from further diagnostic evaluation. Isolated penetrating gallbladder injuries may produce minimal symptoms initially. A high index of suspicion and appropriate selection of imaging studies may lead to early identification. Hepato-iminodiacetic acid scan can be used as the definitive diagnostic imaging test in such occasions.