Evaluation of selective endoscopic cholangiopancreatography [ERCP] in patients under going laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a prospective study

ABSTRACT

This study included 90 patients with symptomatic gallstones presenting for laparoscopic cholecystectomy [LC] during a period of two years. In 19 patients, the criteria of selection for ERCP were fulfilled. Cannulation of the common bile duct [CBD] was achieved in all the 19 cases. ERCP was positive for stones in 13 cases. ERCP with or without endoscopic sphincterotomy [ES] was successful in clearing up the CBD in 11 out of the 13 positive cases. LC was performed for 88 cases [71 cases with no ERCP + 6 cases with negative ERCP + 11 cases with successful ERCP], while open surgery for CBD exploration and cholecystectomy were performed in the 2 cases where ERCP failed to clear up the CBD. No mortalities were reported and the morbidity rate was 10.5%. During a follow up period of 6-12 months [mean = 10], there were no reported missed stones in the CBD