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The Progression of Cholelithiasis to Gallstone Ileus: Do Large Gallstones Warrant Surgery?

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Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery

Abstract

Gallstone ileus is a rare cause of small bowel obstruction, classically occurring in patients with recurrent cholecystitis. The incidence of biliary enteric fistula and gallstone ileus in patients with large, asymptomatic gallstones is not known. We report a case of gallstone ileus, which occurred in the setting of a large, asymptomatic gallstone. This case suggests that large gallstones may warrant cholecystectomy, even in asymptomatic patients.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Section of Colorectal Surgery, Division of General Surgery, University of Virginia, Box 800709, Charlottesville, VA, 22908-0709, USA

    Michael H. Freeman, Matthew G. Mullen & Charles M. Friel

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  1. Michael H. Freeman
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  2. Matthew G. Mullen
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  3. Charles M. Friel
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Correspondence to Charles M. Friel.

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Freeman, M.H., Mullen, M.G. & Friel, C.M. The Progression of Cholelithiasis to Gallstone Ileus: Do Large Gallstones Warrant Surgery?. J Gastrointest Surg 20, 1278–1280 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11605-016-3096-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11605-016-3096-0

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