The aim of this study was to evaluate prospectively the results of the combined endoscopic-laparoscopic management in
patients with
gallstones and suspected
common bile duct [CBD] stones. From November 1994 to May 1999, 600 consecutive
patients were evaluated for
laparoscopic cholecystectomy [LC]. The preoperative workup included clinical
history and
physical examination,
serum levels of
bilirubin,
alkaline phosphatase and
amylase and
ultrasonography. Preoperative
ERCP was indicated in cases with previous or present
jaundice or
acute pancreatitis, altered
liver or pancreatic
blood tests, dilated CBD [>8 mm] and CBD stones at
ultrasonography. If CBD
pathology was confirmed,
endoscopic sphincterotomy [ES] was performed and
treatment was attempted. All
patients were assigned to undergo LC within 48 hours.
Morbidity,
mortality, hospital stay and disabilities were recorded