Developments in the Diagnosis and Management of Cholecystoenteric Fistula

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.

Keywords:

• Bouveret syndrome
• Cholecystoenteric fistula
• Gallstone ileus
• Laparoscopic cholecystectomy
• Gallstones

Disclosure statement

Ying-Yu Liu, Shi-Yuan Bi, Quan-Run He, Ying Fan and Shuo-Dong Wu have no competing interests to declare.