Innovative hybrid technique for bile duct exploration in the treatment of choledocholithiasis

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Common bile stone disease (CBDS) is frequent and has potentially severe complications, such as acute biliary pancreatitis and cholangitis. Unnecessary and unplanned procedures should be avoided, so before choosing the best treatment of common bile duct lithiasis it is essential to have a proper diagnose. CBDS is currently treated by therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) or laparoscopic bile duct exploration (LCBDE). Results: The aim of this article is to present an innovative hybrid technique for common bile duct exploration, as an option for cases where the laparoscopic approach is not resolutive, avoiding the need for conversion to open approach technique. Conclusions: The hybrid technique has the same benefits as open and laparoscopic techniques, but without increasing material costs and with good resolution in complex cases of common bile duct stones. (AU)