Duodenocolic fistula due to acute cholecystitis

Abstract

A case of benign duodenocolic fistula is presented in which the gallbladder, duodenum and hepatic flexure of the colon were involved in an acute inflammatory process. It appears from the history and the operative findings that the gallbladder was the etiologic factor in the creation of this fistula, rather than a duodenal ulcer. At the first operation the gallbladder was removed, the fistula taken down and the opening in the duodenum closed. Because of the large inflammatory mass in the transverse colon, 15 cm. of the latter were resected and a temporary colostomy performed. The colostomy was closed three weeks later.