RESUMO
Objective To summarize the experience of combination use of biliary stent placement and drainage with primary suture of the common bile duct in the treatment of choledocholithiasis. Methods Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration combined with flexible choledochoscopy was performed in 16 patients with choledocholithiasis from June 2005 to March 2006. During the operation, a patented “biliary stent for internal drainage” was introduced into the common bile duct, and primary sutures were performed to close the bile duct. Postoperatively, the stent was removed under gastroscope or duodenoscope. Results All the 16 operations were successfully accomplished without conversions to open surgery. The operative time was 90~260 min (mean, 145 min). The biliary stent was removed 5~7 days after the surgery. Follow-up for 3~12 months showed no residual stones or biliary stenosis. Conclusions Combination use of biliary stent drainage and primary suture of the common bile duct in the treatment of choledocholithiasis is safe and feasible.