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Developments in the Diagnosis and Management of Cholecystoenteric Fistula
Ying-Yu Liu1, Shi-Yuan Bi1, Quan-Run He1
1Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China.
Insights
Cholecystoenteric fistula (CEF) is a rare gallbladder complication. Early diagnosis of CEF is crucial for effective treatment, as it is often difficult to detect preoperatively and can lead to complications.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Cholecystoenteric fistula (CEF) is a rare complication of gallstones.
- CEF involves pathological perforations between the gallbladder and adjacent gastrointestinal tract.
- First described in 1645, CEF remains a diagnostic challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the etiology, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of cholecystoenteric fistulas.
- To highlight the challenges in preoperative diagnosis of CEF.
- To emphasize the importance of early CEF diagnosis for patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed.
- Included historical and current peer-reviewed studies on CEF.
- Studies were selected based on predefined criteria.
Main Results:
- Clinical manifestations of CEF are typically latent.
- Preoperative diagnosis of CEF is difficult despite advanced imaging.
- CEF is frequently discovered perioperatively or intraoperatively.
Conclusions:
- Inadequate preoperative preparation can lead to gastrointestinal injury and bleeding.
- CEF diagnosis and management remain controversial and often unreported.
- Early diagnosis of CEF is essential for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.
Abstract:
Background: Cholecystoenteric fistula (CEF) is a rare complication of cholelithiasis. CEF refers to one or more pathological perforations between the gallbladder and the adjacent gastrointestinal tract, first described by Bartholin in 1645. The aim of this review is to examine the etiology, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of CEF.Methods: A literature search was conducted according to a set of criteria in PubMed for historical and current peer-reviewed studies regarding CEF.Results: Clinical manifestations of CEF are always latent. Despite modern imaging studies and diagnostic methods, it is still very difficult to definitively diagnose CEF preoperatively. Instead, CEF is often accidentally discovered in the perioperative period or via intraoperative exploration.Conclusions: Without appropriate preoperative preparation, gastrointestinal injury and intraoperative bleeding often occur. CEF often goes unreported, and its diagnosis and treatment are still controversial. Early diagnosis of CEF is essential for effective treatment and improved outcome.
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