1074 Gallstone Ileus: Two Decades After Cholecystectomy

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Gallstone ileus is a rare complication of gallstones that occurs in 1%-4% of all cases of bowel obstruction. We present a surprising case of gallstone ileus causing small bowel obstruction 19 years after open cholecystectomy. Case Report A 77-year-old male presented with a 3-day history of abdominal pain, 4 episodes of vomiting and absolute constipation. He had a surgical background of an open cholecystectomy and open appendicectomy 19 years and 45 years ago respectively. Medically, he had well-controlled hypertension and experienced a TIA 5 years prior. Computed Tomography Scan of the abdomen and pelvis revealed features consistent with an obstructing, heterogenous opacity in the distal small bowel without pneumobilia. The patient subsequently underwent diagnostic laparoscopy. Intraoperatively, an obstructing gallstone, measuring 4 cm, was found 50cm proximal to the ileocaecal junction, with dilatation of the proximal small bowel and distal collapse. Enterotomy and removal of the stone was done. Post-operatively, this gentleman recovered without complications and was discharged home two days later after being able to tolerate a solid diet. Conclusions This is the second reported case of gallstone ileus in a patient with previous cholecystectomy about two decades ago, according to our literature search. Although extremely rare, absence of the gallbladder does not exclude the possibility of gallstone ileus.