Gallstone Ileus, A Rare Yet Deadly Cause of Small Bowel Obstruction

Abstract

Introduction:

Gallstone ileus is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction. It commonly affects older patients with significant medical conditions. This disease has a high mortality rate (12-17%), hence should be an important diagnosis to consider, especially as the geriatric population grows worldwide.

Method: Case Report:

84-year old gentleman, with diabetes and ischemic heart disease, presented with diarrhea, vomiting and fever for one day. He was febrile, tachycardic and hypotensive. There was lower abdominal tenderness with guarding. Labs done revealed metabolic acidosis with a raised lactate along with raised inflammatory markers. Impression was intra-abdominal sepsis, with a need to rule out mesenteric ischemia. He underwent CTAP which revealed gallstone ileus. The gallbladder was collapsed and pneumobilia was present in keeping with fistulation. Dilated small bowel loops were present with a transition point at the distal jejunum or proximal ileum, where there are two gallstones. Patient underwent exploratory laparotomy. There was an obstructing large gallstone 100cm from the DJ flexure. After removal of gallstone and decompression, the bowel was pink with areas of bruising. Patient was hypotensive intra-operatively likely contributed by septic shower, requiring dual vasopressors. He was transferred to the ICU post-operatively and developed cardiogenic shock with type 2 respiratory failure precipitated by sepsis. He demised on Day 2 post-operatively.

Results:

Gallstone ileus is caused by intestinal impaction of a gallstone that has migrated through a cholecystoenteric fistula. The classic radiologic sign of gallstone ileus is Rigler's triad. This is only picked up 15% of the time on plain abdominal x-rays. Early CT scans can reveal Rigler triad up to 80% of the time. Surgical management remains the cornerstone of treatment.

Conclusion:

Gallstone ileus remains a diagnostic challenge as patients present with non-specific signs and symptoms. It is prudent for emergency physicians to consider this disease in elderly patients who present with small bowel obstruction.