Radiological Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment of Gallstone Ileus

Abstract

We report on the diagnosis and treatment of a patient who presented with a small bowel obstruction due to gallstone ileus. This condition is an infrequent complication of cholelithiasis that presents with non-specific and intermittent findings, including bloating, early satiety, constipation, nausea, and vomiting. Contrast-enhanced CT features the classic imaging finding, called Rigler's triad, which includes small bowel distension, gas in the gallbladder, and an ectopic gallstone. Laparoscopic enterolithotomy is employed to prevent further erosion through the gallbladder wall and into the adjacent gastrointestinal structures. The early diagnosis and treatment of gallstone ileus results in decreased morbidity and mortality.