Results of surgical treatment in patients with "western" intrahepatic lithiasis.

The results of the surgical treatment in 251 patients with intrahepatic stones are discussed. The mean age of the group was 48 years, with a predominance of females. Gallstones were observed in 72% of the cases, because 28% had had previous cholecystectomy. Associated common bile duct stones were present in 222 (88%) cases, while primary intrahepatic stones were seen in 29 patients. The intrahepatic stones were usually bilateral. Three main operations were employed. Choledochostomy with or without cholecystectomy was performed in 166 (66%) cases with 6 deaths (3.6%). Bilioenteric anastomosis such as sphincteroplasty or choledochoduodenostomy were used in the rest with similar results. However, residual stones were documented in 32% after choledochostomy, while only 4% were seen after choledochoduodenostomy. In our groups, intrahepatic stones originated from migrated stones from the gallbladder, and surgical treatment should be orientated towards complete extraction of the stones and prevention of their further appearance.