Gallstone ileus: A possible cause of bowel obstruction in the elderly population. (2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: De Monti, Marco; Cestaro, Giovanni; Alkayyali, Suleiman; Galafassi, Jacopo; Fasolini, Fabrizio
• Is Part Of: International journal of surgery case reports. Volume 43(2018)
• Page Start: 18
• Page End: 20
• Publication Date: 2018
• Subjects: Case report -- Gallstone ileus -- Bowel obstruction -- Emergency surgery; Surgery -- Periodicals; Surgical Procedures, Operative -- Periodicals; Surgery; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2018.01.010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2210-2612

Abstract

Highlights: Underline the possibility that a gallstone ileus can be a possibility of bowel obstruction in the elderly population. Stimulate discussion about the surgical management of gallstone ileus and cholecystic-duodenal fistula. Abdominal CT scan is the preferred investigation for a timely diagnosis. Abstract: Introduction: Gallstone ileus (GI) is characterized by a mechanical occlusion of the ileal lumen as a result of migration of one or more gallstones in the intestinal tract. Less than 1–4% of all cases of intestinal obstruction are derived from this etiology (1, 2, 3). Case report: We present a case of small intestinal obstruction owing to a large gallstone in lower ileum in a 66 years old woman. The diagnosis was made by computed tomography, and treated successfully with an enterotomy, with a removal of a 5 cm gallstone, carried out through a longitudinal incision on the antimesenteric border. Post-operative course presented no adverse effects. Conclusion: Gallstone ileus should be considered in case of bowel obstruction in the elderly population. Abdominal CT scan is the preferred investigation for a timely diagnosis.