Gallstone-ileus: an uncommon presentation of cholelithiasis

Abstract

Introduction Cholelithiasis is the commonest biliary pathology seen in surgical practice. The majority of patients remain asymptomatic while others present with biliary colics, acute cholecystitis and gallstone pancreatitis. Gallstone ileus is one such uncommon presentation, in which there is a mechanical obstruction of the intestines by an impacted gallstone that has migrated through a bilio-enteric fistula. This condition is seen in elderly patients who have a history of neglected gallstones disease and it carries high morbidity and mortality.