Cholecystoenteric fistulas:s ignificance and radiographic diagnosis

Cholecystoenteric fistulas, not associated with gallstone ileus syndrome, are relatively common complications occurring during the natural history of cholelithiasis and cholecystitis. The etiology, pathogenesis as well as common and uncommon forms of gallbladder fistulas are presented and discussed. The roentgenographic findings are reviewed and a simple classification into two major groups is offered. The majority are acute, transitory, short-lived fistulas, which are self-limiting and relatively common events that usually remain undiagnosed. A minority fail to heal, become chronic and permanent fistulas and are associated with obstruction of the common duct.