Bile leak after cholecystectomy is associated with significant comorbidity. Biliary duct variant anatomy can complicate identification and management. We report a very rare presentation of recurrent delayed bile leaks years after laparoscopic cholecystectomy secondary to missed right posterior sectoral bile duct injury. Surgical intervention was required after failure of conservative management.

Key clinical message: Right posterior sectoral duct injury should be considered in patients presenting with a delayed recurrent bile leak. Deep dissection into liver parenchyma during gallbladder fossa dissection should be avoided to prevent occurrence of such injuries.