Mirizzi syndrome.

Mirizzi syndrome is a complication of long standing cholelithiasis. In this, obstruction of the extrahepatic bile duct by stone/s in the Hartman's pouch or cystic duct (Mirrizi type I) may erode in to the bile duct forming cholecystobiliary fistula (Mirrizi type II). Altered biliary tract anatomy and the associated pathology make cholecystectomy, open or laparoscopic, a formidable undertaking. Awareness of this entity and its preoperative diagnosis is of paramount importance to avoid injury to the bile duct at surgery. Improper surgical procedures may lead to long-term stricture formation. The present article reviews the available literature on various aspect of this syndrome including its pathogenesis, diagnosis and recommended management guidelines.