IMAGING OF GALLSTONE ILEUS

Gallstone ileus is a rare disorder. which, because it is often misdiag nosed preoperatively, may become life-threatening. The classic triad o f Rigler (aerobilia, small bowel ileus and a calcified, dystopic stone ) is visualized on abdominal plain films in only 14-35% of cases. Furt her work-up includes ultrasound, upper gastrointestinal series with wa ter soluble contrast medium and computed tomography (CT). CT is especi ally reliable in demonstrating all three criteria.