Mirizzi syndrome: History, current knowledge and proposal of a simplified classification

Mirizzi syndrome with an unusual type of biliobiliary fistula-a case report

Gallstone obstruction of the cystic duct, resulting in chronic cholecystitis and pressure necrosis leads to the formation of biliobiliary fistula (BBF). We herein reported a case of Mirizzi syndrome (MS) with an unusual type of BBF (Corlette type I) that was successfully managed by a staged treatment strategy. The patient was diagnosed with a solitary gallstone, marked atrophy of the gallbladder, and BBF and underwent mucosal incineration of the atrophic gallbladder and simple closure, followed by extirpation of gallbladder. Although an optimal treatment strategy has not yet been established for MS with BBF because of its rarity and anatomical variations in fistulas, the current treatment strategy may be applicable. In conclusion, clinicians need to carefully diagnose and evaluate chronic cholecystitis in MS with BBF and adopt an optimal treatment strategy to avoid the complication associated with this disease.

Unusual complications of gallstones

Extrinsic compression of the bile duct from gallstone disease is associated with bilio-biliary fistulization, requiring biliary-enteric reconstruction. Biliary-enteric fistulas are associated with intestinal obstruction at various levels. The primary goal of therapy is relief of intestinal obstruction; definitive repair is performed for selected patients. Hemobilia from gallstone-related pseudoaneurysms is preferentially controlled by selective arterial embolization. Rapidly increasing jaundice with relatively normal liver enzymes is a diagnostic hallmark of bilhemia. Acquired thoraco-biliary fistulas are primarily treated by percutaneous and endoscopic interventions.

Liver transplantation for "mass-forming" sclerosing cholangitis after laparoscopic cholecystectomy

INTRODUCTION

Chronic biliary obstruction consequence of a bile duct injury may require liver transplantation (LT) in case of secondary biliary cirrhosis, intractable pruritus or reiterate episodes of cholangitis. "Mass-forming" sclerosing cholangitis leading to secondary portal vein thrombosis and pre-sinusoidal portal hypertension has not been reported so far.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We present the case of a patient who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy for Mirizzi syndrome. The persistent bile duct obstruction due to a residual gallstone fragment was treated by a prolonged biliary stenting. Following repeated bouts of cholangitis, a fibrous centrohepatic scar developed, conglobating and obstructing the main branches of the portal vein and of the biliary tree. The patient developed secondary portal vein thrombosis and portal hypertension. After an extensive diagnostic work-up, including surgical exploration to rule out malignancy, the case was successfully managed by liver transplantation.

DISCUSSION

Mass-forming sclerosis of the bile duct and biliary bifurcation may develop as a consequence of chronic biliary obstruction and prolonged stenting. Secondary portal vein thrombosis and pre-sinusoidal portal hypertension represents an unusual complication, mimicking Klatskin tumor.

CONCLUSION

A timely and proper management of post-cholecystectomy complications is of mainstay importance. Early referral to a specialized hepato-biliary center is strongly advised.