Abstract
BACKGROUND: Gallstones are frequently observed in patients with cholecystitis, but the migration of free gallstones into the abdominal wall leading to chronic sinus formation is exceedingly rare. CASE SUMMARY: We report a case of a 72-year-old woman who experienced recurring fever and abdominal pain following laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis, during which gallbladder rupture was noted. Despite initial conservative management and temporary T-tube placement, the patient developed a chronic sinus in the abdominal wall 9.5 years later, characterized by an area of thickened soft tissue with ulceration and purulent discharge. Surgical exploration revealed the presence of a migrated gallstone at the base of the sinus tract, necessitating careful surgical removal and postoperative wound care. CONCLUSION: This case highlights the potential long-term complications of retained free gallstones and the importance of thorough surgical retrieval.