Neglected Gallstone Disease Presented As Gallstone Ileus: A Rare Cause of Intestinal Obstruction

Abstract

Gallstone ileus is a rare complication of cholelithiasis seen in patients with a long history of cholelithiasis. It occurs more in the older age group and in the female gender. These patients have poor general condition and therefore selection of appropriate treatment is difficult. The clinician has to make a decision between immediate one-stage or two-stage closure of the cholecysto-intestinal fistula or waiting for natural closure. We have discussed the management of a rare cause of small bowel obstruction due to complication of untreated cholelithiasis.