Cody's Troubled Gallbladder

Cody, a beloved 13 year old Bichon came into the hospital because he was feeling unwell and hadn't been eating.  Blood tests revealed increased liver enzymes and an ultrasound scan showed an abnormality in the gallbladder called a 'gallbladder mucocele'.  This is a rare and life threatening disease where the gallbladder becomes inflamed and hugely distended with gelatinous bile.  If untreated, the gallbladder is at risk of infection and may eventually rupture.  Cody was placed on IV fluids and underwent complex surgery to remove his enlarged gallbladder.  After surgery, Cody required a feeding tube and intensive care for several days but made a speedy recovery and is now back to his usual, energetic self.