Gallstone ileus: An unusual cause of intestinal obstruction

Radiol Case Rep. 2021 Nov 9;17(1):129-132. doi: 10.1016/j.radcr.2021.10.016. eCollection 2022 Jan.

Abstract

Gallstone ileus is an infrequent cause of intestinal obstruction. It is typically the result of cholecystoduodenal fistula, computed tomography scan is the best modality for the diagnosis. Surgical removal of the gallstone is the pillar of treatment to relieve intestinal obstruction. We report the case of a 77-year-old male with features of a small bowel obstruction. Computed tomography scan of the abdomen showed pneumobilia, a cholecystoduodenal fistula, and small bowel obstruction features suspicious for gallstone ileus. The patient had a laparotomy and removal of two gallstones via an enterotomy without postoperative complications.

Keywords: Computed tomography; Gallstone ileus; Intestinal obstruction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports