Gallstone ileus syndrome

Bouveret's syndrome refers to recurrent episodes of biliary tract inflammation with adhesions to the adjacent duodenum, colon, stomach, and the biliary tract itself. Gallstone impaction, obstruction, and compression, followed by secondary bacterial infection, increase intra-biliary pressure, leading to local circulatory disturbance, or necrosis and perforation that may rupture into the adhered organs to form fistulas. If a stone obstructs the intestine, it can cause this condition. This syndrome is rare, accounting for approximately 1% to 3% of mechanical small bowel obstructions.