Bouveret syndrome in a young patient: A case report and review of literature.

BACKGROUND: Bouveret syndrome is a rare cause of gastric outlet obstruction resulting from the passage of a gallstone into the duodenum or stomach through a biliary-enteric fistula. It is a complication of chronic cholelithiasis and accounts for only 1%-3% of all gallstone-related intestinal obstructions.

CASE SUMMARY: A 49-year-old male presented with nausea, vomiting, and upper abdominal pain. Imaging revealed a large gastric stone and a cholecystoduodenal fistula, confirming Bouveret syndrome. An initial endoscopic attempt to remove the stone was unsuccessful, necessitating surgical intervention. The patient subsequently underwent successful stone extraction and fistula repair, followed by an uneventful postoperative recovery. While Bouveret syndrome typically affects elderly individuals (average age: 74 years), this case in a younger patient provides valuable insights into its management in this demographic.

CONCLUSION: Bouveret syndrome is a serious but uncommon condition often presenting with nonspecific symptoms, leading to potential diagnostic delays. Timely diagnosis, usually confirmed by imaging, is critical for optimal outcomes. Although endoscopy is often the first-line therapy, surgery remains essential for cases with failed endoscopic intervention or complex anatomical involvement. This case highlights the importance of recognizing the syndrome's clinical features in younger patients and enhancing the understanding of its diagnosis and management strategies.