Calot's triangle is an anatomical landmark of special value in cholecystectomy. First described by Jean-François Calot as an "isosceles" triangle in his doctoral thesis in 1891, this anatomical space requires careful dissection before the ligation and division of the cystic artery and cystic duct during cholecystectomy. The modern definition of the boundaries of Calot's triangle varies from Calot's original description, although the exact timing of this change is not entirely clear. The structures within Calot's triangle and their anatomical relationships can present the surgeon with difficulties, particularly when anatomical variations are encountered. Sound knowledge of the normal anatomy of the extrahepatic biliary tract and vasculature, as well as understanding of congenital variation, is thus essential in the prevention of iatrogenic injury. The authors describe the normal anatomy of Calot's triangle and common anatomical anomalies. The incidence of structural injury is discussed, and new techniques in surgery for enhancing the visualisation of Calot's triangle are reviewed. © .

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HighlightsIntra-abdominal desmoid tumours have a poor prognosis as they can cause intestinal bleeding, obstruction and perforation.The authors report a rare case of small bowel obstruction and perforation secondary to sporadic, synchronous intra-abdominal desmoid tumours.In non-emergency presentations of desmoid tumours, it is essential to exclude hereditary polyposis syndromes.Sporadic intra-abdominal desmoid tumours should be managed in a specialist sarcoma unit.In the presence of polyposis syndromes patients with desmoid tumours should be managed at a specialist colorectal unit.