What is a gallbladder fistula?

Biliary fistulas are defined as chronic pipe-like ulcers. They can connect the gallbladder with the biliary tree and rarely involve the gastrointestinal tract (internal fistulas) and the abdominal wall (external fistulas) [1].

Can gallstones cause fistula?

The cause of fistula between the gall bladder and stomach is primarily cholecystitis with formation of one or more gallstones, which by irritation cause inflammation resulting in plastic peritonitis with adhesions to the surrounding structures.

What are the chances of surviving gallbladder surgery?

In population-based studies, the risk for post-operative mortality after a cholecystectomy for gallstone disease has been estimated to be between 0.1% and 0.7%. Mortality rates were not substantially affected by the introduction of a laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC).

How is a fistula treated in the gallbladder?

Therefore, either the stone responsible for the fistula is still present in the gallbladder, or the stone responsible was too small to cause obstruction and was passed without notice. The treatment for a symptomatic cholecystocolonic fistula is surgery. The operatio inflammation can lead to adhesions between the biliary tract and the bowel.

Do you have to have gallbladder surgery to get rid of gallstones?

This is known as acute cholecystitis. To prevent such infection, one should get rid of gallstones right away. A cholecystectomy or removal of the gallbladder is a common operation for gallbladder pain from gallstones. However, the risk of complications depends on your overall health, type of surgery and the reason for your gallstones removal.

What kind of surgery do you need for a fistula?

If a person has sepsis, a doctor will usually recommend surgery to repair the areas of drainage. Surgery may involve special drains, negative-pressure therapy systems, or other therapies to allow the fistula to drain while healing. Negative-pressure therapy uses a vacuum to increase blood flow to an area and help drain excess fluid.

Is the fistula a complication of gallstones?

Conclusions: The incidence of cholecystoduodenal fistula was similar to that reported in the medical literature. It is a rare complication of gallstones and its diagnosis is difficult due to its nonspecific symptomatology.