OBJECTIVE:

To provide an overview of the latest findings on diagnostic procedures and treatment options for Bouveret’s syndrome.

KEY POINTS

Bouveret’s syndrome, a rare gallstone disease complication affecting 0.3—5% of patients, is characterized by the obstruction of the stomach or duodenum by a large biliary stone. This distinct type of gallstone ileus stems from the formation of a fistula between the gallbladder and the duodenum or stomach walls, usually due to ongoing inflammation. The syndrome is frequently overlooked due to clinicians’ low awareness, its nonspecific symptoms, and the disease’s complexity, resulting in delayed diagnoses and subsequent treatments. The rarity of Bouveret’s syndrome means that there are no standardized guidelines for its diagnosis and management.

CONCLUSION

Raising awareness and adopting a multidisciplinary approach are crucial in diagnosing Bouveret’s syndrome. While challenges persist in treating gallstone ileus, lithotripsy with laser technology has been shown to be highly effective and safe, warranting further investigation.