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Updated: Jan 23, 2026

07:33
A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction
Published on: March 5, 2018
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Gallstone Ileus: A Rare Case of Intestinal Obstruction.
Joana Rodrigues Ferreira1, Tomás Matos Nunes1, Madalena Costa1
1General Surgery, Unidade Local de Saúde de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisbon, PRT.
Cureus
|January 22, 2026
Summary
Gallstone ileus, a rare bowel obstruction, requires prompt diagnosis and management. This case highlights successful treatment with enterolithotomy and electrohydraulic lithotripsy in a frail elderly patient.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Gastroenterology
- Digestive System Diseases
Background:
- Gallstone ileus is a rare mechanical bowel obstruction caused by gallstones impacting the GI tract, often secondary to a cholecystoenteric fistula.
- It predominantly affects elderly individuals with comorbidities, leading to delayed diagnosis due to non-specific symptoms.
- Gallstone ileus is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, and its optimal management remains controversial.
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