Bouveret

Bouveret is a rare medical condition characterized by gastric outlet obstruction caused by a gallstone. This occurs when a gallstone erodes through the gallbladder wall and into the duodenum or stomach, eventually migrating and causing a blockage in the pylorus or duodenum. The condition is named after French physician Léon Bouveret, who first described it in 1898.

The typical symptoms of Bouveret's syndrome include severe epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting (often with undigested food), and abdominal distension. Patients may experience dehydration and electrolyte imbalances due to persistent vomiting. The condition is more common in elderly individuals, particularly women, who have a history of gallstones.

Diagnosis usually involves imaging studies such as abdominal X-rays, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, or upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. These can help visualize the gallstone obstructing the gastric outlet and assess its size and location.

Treatment for Bouveret's syndrome is primarily surgical or endoscopic. Endoscopic techniques, such as lithotripsy (breaking up the stone) or surgical removal of the stone through endoscopy, are often attempted first. If these are unsuccessful or not feasible, surgical intervention, including gastrotomy and lithotomy (opening the stomach and removing the stone), or cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) may be necessary. The prognosis depends on the promptness of diagnosis and treatment, as well as the patient's overall health.