Gallstone Ileus Presenting as Suspected Bouveret Syndrome: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge

Abstract

Biliary ileus is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction, resulting from the migration of a gallstone through a bilioenteric fistula, with subsequent impaction in the gastrointestinal tract. Bouveret syndrome is a rare subtype of biliary ileus that occurs due to the impaction of a gallstone in the pyloric canal or the duodenum. Despite its low incidence, this clinical condition is associated with a significant mortality rate, which can reach up to 15%. Thus, early diagnosis, based on a high index of clinical suspicion and timely treatment are essential.

The authors present a clinical case of probable Bouveret syndrome, highlighting the associated diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, given that no specific treatment has been established. This diagnosis should be considered in cases of proximal intestinal obstruction, despite its rarity.