RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Gallstone ileus (GSI) is a rare form of small bowel obstruction (SBO) in patients with cholelithiasis, which is often poorly managed. Enhanced abdominal computed tomography (CT) with contrast is considered the most helpful diagnostic tool, as it is highly sensitive, specific, and accurate. We report an interesting case of recurrent GSI that was not detected by CT but diagnosed intraoperatively. CASE PRESENTATION: A 49-year-old female with a previous history of choledocholithiasis and ERCP presented to the emergency department following episodes of sudden cramping, epigastric pain, and nausea. An abdominal CT revealed evidence of SBO with clear evidence of GSI and a cholecystoduodenal fistula. Laparoscopic exploration of the small bowel revealed a large, calcified 3.5 cm × 3 cm gallstone with evidence of pressure necrosis; segmental bowel resection with stapled anastomosis was performed and patient recovered appropriately after surgery. Cholecystectomy was not performed due to multiple co-morbidities and absence of gallbladder stones. However, she presented two months later with signs and symptoms of SBO. A repeat abdominal CT showed dilated bowel with no clear transition point. This was suspected to be due to adhesions. After an initial conservative treatment which produced mild improvement, laparotomy was performed which revealed a second large non-calcified gallstone and necrotic small bowel with a pocket of abscess. CONCLUSION: The most sensitive diagnostic tool for GSI is enhanced abdominal CT but dilemma arises when GSI is not detected on CT. A high index of suspicion and further exploration are required in order not to miss other vital findings.
RESUMEN
Gantzer muscles are variant muscles in the anterior forearm inserting into the flexor pollicis longus or, less often, the flexor digitorum profundus. The presence of Gantzer muscles can cause a compressive neuropathy affecting the anterior interosseous nerve (Kiloh-Nevin syndrome). These muscles must also be considered when anterior forearm fasciotomies are performed for the management of acute compartment syndrome. In this case report, a novel Gantzer muscle originated from the flexor digitorum superficialis as well as the investing fascia of the brachialis muscle; the latter site is a novel proximal attachment not previously reported. In addition, the Gantzer muscle possessed rare characteristics because it (1) possessed a split tendinous distal insertion into both the flexor pollicis longus and flexor digitorum profundus, (2) exhibited a triangular morphology, and (3) was innervated by the median nerve. Most importantly, the dual origin of this Gantzer muscle formed a tunnel containing branches of the median nerve; therefore, this report documents a unique anatomical scenario in which the Gantzer muscle may compress and cause entrapment of aspects of the median nerve.
