Comparison of endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation and endoscopic sphincterotomy for retrieval of choledocholithiasis

ABSTRACT

Background: Endoscopic sphincterotomy [EST] combined with balloon catheters and/or baskets are the routine endoscopic techniques for stone extraction in the great majority of patients. Whereas large common bile duct [CBD] stones are treated conventionally with mechanical lithotripsy, large balloon papillary dilation after endoscopic sphincterotomy [ELPBD] represents the onset of an era in large CBD stone extraction and the management of [impaction]. That is because it seems effective, inexpensive, less traumatic, safe and easy method that does not require sophisticated apparatus and can be performed widely by skillful endoscopists. Studies comparing the efficacy and safety of EPLBD with EST have reported mixed outcomes. The aim of the study to compare the success and complications rates between endoscopic papillary balloon dilation and endoscopic sphincterotomy for enlargement of papillary opening during endoscopic removal of common bile duct stones