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Colonic Gallstone Ileus: Treatment Challenges
Teresa Da Cunha1, Bashar Sharma2, Steven Goldenberg2
1Internal Medicine, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, USA.
Cureus
|December 29, 2021
Summary
Gallstone ileus in the colon is rare, especially in elderly patients, often leading to high mortality. While less invasive treatments are emerging, surgery remains the primary intervention for colonic gallstone obstruction.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Gastroenterology
Background:
- Gallstone ileus, a rare complication of cholelithiasis, typically involves the small intestine.
- Colonic gallstone ileus is an infrequent occurrence, predominantly seen in the elderly, presenting significant management challenges and high mortality rates.
Observation:
- A case of an 89-year-old male with sigmoid colon obstruction due to a gallstone is presented.
- Endoscopic treatment for this colonic gallstone ileus was unsuccessful in this patient.
Findings:
- Gallstone obstruction at the colonic level is an uncommon condition.
- Elderly patients with colonic gallstone ileus face high mortality due to complex treatment.
- Surgical intervention remains the definitive treatment for colonic gallstone ileus, despite evolving less invasive options.
Implications:
- This case highlights the challenges in managing colonic gallstone ileus, particularly when less invasive methods fail.
- A comprehensive literature review was conducted to analyze presentation, diagnostics, and treatment of colonic gallstone ileus.
- Further research may refine treatment strategies for this rare but serious condition.
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