Gallstone as a cause of intestinal obstruction (Bouveret syndrome).

ABSTRACT

Gallstone ileus is a rare cause of bowel obstruction. Here we report about two cases with clinical findings and therapy options. Both patients were presented with typical ileus-like symptoms, although the surgical treatment differs due to the CT scan and intraoperative findings. There are many methods for treating patients with Bouveret syndrome. Endoscopy should be the first treatment option for young patients with no significant diseases in the medical history, depending on the size of the stone. Surgical approach is the next possible option. Combination of these two methods is associated with higher mortality. In case there is no extraluminal gas or intraperitoneal fluid in CT-scan, there is no need for an acute surgery. Conservative therapy prior to the intervention enables a precise planning of whether the endoscopic approach or open surgery would be beneficial for the patient.