The Rigler’s triad: a case of gallstone ileus

Abstract

Rigler’s triad is an extremely rare syndrome that accounts for 4% of all cases of small intestinal obstruction (SBO). This illness is distinguished by three clinical and radiological features: pneumobilia, a severe intestinal blockage, and an abnormally placed gallstone in the gallbladder. An 84-year-old woman arrives at the Emergency Department with symptoms of SBO. The CT scan is essential for detecting the trio. An emergency laparoscopy with an enterotomy and gallstone extraction was conducted successfully. The Rigler’s triad should be suspected in elderly individuals with a history of gallstones in the gallbladder, especially in the emergency scenario. Large and solitary gallstones in the gallbladder that are asymptomatic should be candidates for cholecystectomy. In conclusion, this case is a very didactic instance, particularly because of the crisp CT images that can assist surgeons in identifying gallstone ileus and the mini-invasive method that can also benefit in an emergency context.