title: The Progression of Cholelithiasis to Gallstone Ileus: Do Large Gallstones Warrant 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.
authors: Section of Colorectal Surgery, Division of General Surgery, University of Virginia, Box 800709, Charlottesville, VA, 22908-0709, USA.
authors: Michael H
authors: MH
authors: Freeman
authors: Section of Colorectal Surgery, Division of General Surgery, University of Virginia, Box 800709, Charlottesville, VA, 22908-0709, USA.
authors: Matthew G
authors: MG
authors: Mullen
authors: Section of Colorectal Surgery, Division of General Surgery, University of Virginia, Box 800709, Charlottesville, VA, 22908-0709, USA. cmf2x@virginia.edu.
authors: Charles M
authors: CM
authors: Friel
mesh_terms: D002763:Cholecystectomy; D002769:Cholelithiasis / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery; D018450:Disease Progression; D005260:Female; D042882:Gallstones / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007077:Ileal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D045823:Ileus / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D007421:Intestine, Small; D008875:Middle Aged
keywords: Cholelithiasis; Enterolithotomy; Gallstone ileus