Rigler’s triad in a case of gallstone ileus

Abstract

Background: gallstone ileus is a rare complication of cholelithiasis. It is defined as a mechanical obstruction of the small bowel due to impaction of large gallstones into the gastrointestinal tract, generally though a cholecystoduodenal fistula. Rigler’s triad (pneumobilia, ectopic gallstone and mechanical obstruction) occurs in 30% of the patients. Surgery is indicated and includes enterotomy with gallstone extraction. Objective: we report a case of gallstone ileus with radiographic evidence of Rigler’s triad