The Safety and Feasibility of Laparoscopic Exploration of Common Bile Duct and Choledochoscope in the Magagement of Patients with Choledocholithiasis

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Traditionally, the main treatment for common bile duct (CBD) stones and gallstones is ERCP combined with a laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). However, this procedure is generally performed in 2 stages, which makes the patients uncomfortable and unsatisfied. It also can result in the need for several procedures if it fails, and sometimes the surgery is warranted. Recently in the laparoscopic era, the laparoscopic skill has been developed quite rapidly. In the case of CBD stones, there are many reports involving laparoscopic procedures. We reviewed the safety and feasibility of removing CBD stones using a laparoscope and choledochoscope. METHOD: This retrospective study reviewed 40 cases who underwent a laparoscopic cholecystectomy and choledocholithotomy for bile duct stones between Feb. 2002 and Aug. 2004. RESULTS: Of the 40 patients who underwent the laparoscopic procedure, 25 were combined with gallstones, and 12 underwent the transcystic duct approach. The average operation time and average hospital stay was 141.2 mins and 11.3 days, respectively, and the average age was 69.4 year old. There was 1 case of a major complication, where bile leakage occurred for more than 14 days due to a shincter stenosis. This case was improved by an endoscopic sphincterotomy. Of them, 30 underwent a primary closure and 8 underwent T-tube drainage, 2 underwent a biliary stent. CONCLUSION: The laparoscopic cholecystectomy and choledocholithotomy using a choledochoscope are quite safe and feasible, can reduce the patient's anxiety, and increase their level of satisfaction.