Bouveret's Syndrome: A Case Series and Literature Review on a Gallstone Disease Causing Gastric Outlet Obstruction

Introduction Bouveret's syndrome refers to a gastric outlet obstruction due to the impaction of a large gallstone following retrograde migration via a bilio-duodenal fistula. Although no clear management guideline has been formulated, different treatment modalities have been described, including endoscopic stone removal using classical endoscopic devices, like snares and forceps, or fragmentation of stones with new devices, such as lasers and extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL). Results This case series reports six patients who have been diagnosed with Bouveret's syndrome and have presented with interesting radiological and endoscopic findings. The report is followed by a literature review, including diagnostic and management options for this rare condition. Discussion Cholelithiasis is a common condition occurring in the general population and may develop rare complications such as cholecystoduodenal fistula. Bouveret's syndrome presents with a clinical picture similar to that of gastric outlet obstruction, and laboratory findings are often consistent with an obstructive jaundice picture. The use of endoscopic treatment with a range of different lithotripsy modalities has been described to manage this condition. Conclusion The diagnosis of Bouveret's syndrome is made after performing appropriate imaging studies. The first-line management option is endoscopic treatment. If this fails, surgical intervention is recommended.