Long-term results after laparoscopic transverse choledochotomy for common bile duct stones. Surg Endosc. 2005;19:705-709. [PMID: 15776207 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-004-8944-4]

Primary suture for patients of bile duct stones after laparoscopic biliary tract exploration: a retrospective cohort study

There are still many physicians who are reluctant to use primary biliary suture in Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) for fear of more complications. We compare and analyze the clinical effectiveness of bile duct primary suture with three laparoscopic ports and indwelling T-tube drainage (with four laparoscopic ports) in patients with choledocholithiasis after LCBDE. Clinical data of 135 patients with common bile duct (CBD) stone were compared, including general conditions, postoperative hospital stay, postoperative complications, hospitalization costs, postoperative follow-up and other indicators. Forty-eight patients underwent primary suture of bile duct (group A) and 87 were treated with external T-tube drainage (group B). There were no significant differences between the two groups neither relating to the age, gender, BMI, diameter of CBD, number of stones, preoperative bilirubin value, number of previous surgeries in preoperative, nor the operation time, residual stones, the number of cases converted from laparoscopic conversion to laparotomy. The postoperative complications like fever, bleeding, incision infection, bile duct stricture has no differences between two group. The incidence of bile leakage (p = 0.008) and postoperative electrolyte disturbance (p = 0.001) were slightly lower in group A. There were fewer postoperative complications in group A vs group B (p = 0.04). Patients in group A experienced shorter postoperative hospital stay (p < 0.001), earlier postoperative extubation (p < 0.001), lower total hospitalization costs (p = 0.03), and earlier postoperative recovery (p = 0.000). Primary suture of CBD is a safe and effective method for some patients after LCBDE.

Laparoscopic Management of Common Bile Duct Stones: Stratifying Risks, a District Hospital Experience

Background: Management of bile duct stones is variable. Selection of the appropriate treatment modality based on identifiable risk factors can increase the chances of a successful outcome. The aim of this study is to identify factors affecting outcomes of a laparoscopic bile duct exploration. Methods: Retrospective data analysis of consecutive laparoscopic bile duct explorations over a period of 13 years at a district general hospital. Results: The total number of patients in the study was 85. Elective explorations were 56 while 29 were emergency procedures. The mean operative time was 154 minutes. The conversion rate was 14% with failure to extract stones being the most common reason. Forty-two percent of conversions were in nonelective procedures and 17% in previous endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) failures. Eleven percent patients had a transcystic clearance of bile duct and the largest stone removed transcystic was 5 mm. The largest stone removed by a laparoscopic choledochotomy was 15 mm and stones >20 mm were removed on conversion. Seven patients (8%) had a postoperative bile leak, 4 of these required a postoperative ERCP stent and radiological drainage while 3 required a reoperation. Three patients had retained stones treated by postoperative ERCP. Conclusion: Emergency procedures, increasing number and size of stones, previous failed ERCP are factors that contribute to the outcomes of a laparoscopic bile duct exploration. The chances of a successful exploration can be improved by appropriate patient and procedure selection and preparation based on identification of these factors.

Open conversion in laparoscopic cholecystectomy and bile duct exploration: subspecialisation safely reduces the conversion rates

Background

Open conversion rates during laparoscopic cholecystectomy vary depending on many factors. Surgeon experience and operative difficulty influence the decision to convert on the grounds of patient safety but occasionally due to technical factors. We aim to evaluate the difficulties leading to conversion, the strategies used to minimise this event and how subspecialisation influenced conversion rates over time.

Methods

Prospectively collected data from 5738 laparoscopic cholecystectomies performed by a single surgeon over 28 years was analysed. Routine intraoperative cholangiography and common bile duct exploration when indicated are utilised. Patients undergoing conversion, fundus first dissection or subtotal cholecystectomy were identified and the causes and outcomes compared to those in the literature.

Results

28 patients underwent conversion to open cholecystectomy (0.49%). Morbidity was relatively high (33%). 16 of the 28 patients (57%) had undergone bile duct exploration. The most common causes of conversion in our series were dense adhesions (9/28, 32%) and impacted bile duct stones (7/28, 25%). 173 patients underwent fundus first cholecystectomy (FFC) (3%) and 6 subtotal cholecystectomy (0.1%). Morbidity was 17.3% for the FFC and no complications were encountered in the subtotal cholecystectomy patients. These salvage techniques have reduced our conversion rate from a potential 3.5% to 0.49%.

Conclusion

Although open conversion should not be seen as a failure, it carries a high morbidity and should only be performed when other strategies have failed. Subspecialisation and a high emergency case volume together with FFC and subtotal cholecystectomy as salvage strategies can reduce conversion and its morbidity in difficult cholecystectomies.

Surgical (Open and laparoscopic) management of large difficult CBD stones after different sessions of endoscopic failure: A retrospective cohort study

Objectives

For complicated common bile duct stones (CBDS) that cannot be extracted by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), management can be safely by open or laparoscopic CBD exploration (CBDE). The study aimed to assess these surgical procedures after endoscopic failure.

Methods

We analyzed 85 patients underwent surgical management of difficult CBDS after ERCP failure, in the period from 2013 to 2018.

Results

Sixty-seven (78.8%) and 18(21.2%) of our patients underwent single and multiple ERCP sessions respectively. An impacted large stone was the most frequent cause of ERCP failure (60%). Laparoscopic CBDE(LCBDE), open CBDE(OCBDE) and the converted cases were 24.7% (n = 21), 70.6% (n = 60), and 4.7% (n = 4) respectively. Stone clearance rate post LCBDE and OCBDE reached 95.2% and 95% respectively, Eleven (12.9%) of our patients had postoperative complications without mortality. By comparing LCBDE and OCBDE; there was a significant association between the former and longer operative time. On comparing, T-tube and 1ry CBD closure in both OCBDE and LCBDE, there was significantly longer operative time, and post-operative hospital stays in the former. Furthermore, in OCBDE group, choledocoscopy had an independent direction to 1ry CBD repair and significant association with higher stone clearance rate, shorter operative time, and post-operative hospital stay.

Conclusion

Large difficult CBDS can be managed either by open surgery or laparoscopically with acceptable comparable outcomes with no need for multiple ERCP sessions due to their related morbidities; furthermore, Open choledocoscopy has a good impact on stone clearance rate with direction towards doing primary repair that is better than T-tube regarding operative time and post-operative hospital stay.

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Large difficult CBD stones can be managed either by open surgery or laparoscopically with acceptable comparable outcomes.

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No need for multiple ERCP sessions due to their related morbidities.

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Open choledocoscopy has a good impact on stone clearance rate with direction towards doing primary repair.

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Primary repair is better than T-tube regarding operative time and post-operative hospital stay.

Surgical (Open and laparoscopic) management of large difficult CBD stones after different sessions of endoscopic failure: A retrospective cohort study

Objectives

For complicated common bile duct stones (CBDS) that cannot be extracted by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), management can be safely by open or laparoscopic CBD exploration (CBDE). The study aimed to assess these surgical procedures after endoscopic failure.

Methods

We analyzed 85 patients underwent surgical management of difficult CBDS after ERCP failure, in the period from 2013 to 2018.

Results

Sixty-seven (78.8%) and 18(21.2%) of our patients underwent single and multiple ERCP sessions respectively. An impacted large stone was the most frequent cause of ERCP failure (60%). Laparoscopic CBDE(LCBDE), open CBDE(OCBDE) and the converted cases were 24.7% (n = 21), 70.6% (n = 60), and 4.7% (n = 4) respectively. Stone clearance rate post LCBDE and OCBDE reached 95.2% and 95% respectively, Eleven (12.9%) of our patients had postoperative complications without mortality. By comparing LCBDE and OCBDE; there was a significant association between the former and longer operative time. On comparing, T-tube and 1ry CBD closure in both OCBDE and LCBDE, there was significantly longer operative time, and post-operative hospital stays in the former. Furthermore, in OCBDE group, choledocoscopy had an independent direction to 1ry CBD repair and significant association with higher stone clearance rate, shorter operative time, and post-operative hospital stay.

Conclusion

Large difficult CBDS can be managed either by open surgery or laparoscopically with acceptable comparable outcomes with no need for multiple ERCP sessions due to their related morbidities; furthermore, Open choledocoscopy has a good impact on stone clearance rate with direction towards doing primary repair that is better than T-tube regarding operative time and post-operative hospital stay.

Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration Versus Open Approach in Cirrhotic Patients with Choledocholithiasis: A Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and benefits of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) compared with open approach (OCBDE) in cirrhotic patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 2009 and December 2012, a total of 113 cirrhotic patients with choledocholithiasis underwent common bile duct (CBD) explorations in our department. There were two groups of patients: A:LCBDE (n = 61) and B:OCBDE (n = 52). Patients' demographic characteristics, surgical data, postoperative outcomes, and long-term results were retrospectively collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the two groups in the demographic characteristics or preoperative status. The transcystic approach was successfully performed in 52 (46.0%) patients (group A:34, group B:20), whereas choledochotomy was successful in 59 (54.0%) patients (group A:27, group B:32). The differences between group A and group B in terms of surgical time (124.9 ± 34.2 minutes versus 132.6 ± 48.6 minutes, P = .323), stone clearance rate (93.4% versus 94.2%, P > .05), short-term complication rate (9.8% versus 13.4%, P = .547), and recurrent stone rate (6.6% versus 5.8%, P > .05) were not statistically significant. However, group A suffered less blood loss [95 (60-200) mL versus 200 (90-450) mL, P < .001] and shorter length of hospital stay (4.7 ± 2.5 days versus 11.3 ± 3.1 days, P < .001) than group B. In the LCBDE group, 4 (6.6%) patients were converted due to heavy inflammation and severe adhesions. No mortality, biliary injury, or stricture occurred during follow-up.

CONCLUSION

LCBDE can be safely performed in patients with Child-Pugh A or B cirrhosis and choledocholithiasis, with considerable efficiency, minimal short-term complications, and acceptable long-term outcomes. LCBDE has the advantages over open CBD exploration of less bleeding and reduced length of hospital stay.

Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration versus ERCP/stenting and cholecystectomy: Is a single staged procedure better?

Aims: Choledocholithiasis is most common cause of obstructive jaundice. Laparoscopic choledocholithotomy has evolved as an alternative procedure to ERCP/ stenting in the management of choledocholithiasis. This study was aimed to compare the outcomes of laparoscopic CBD exploration with cholecystectomy (group 1) as compared to the conventional two staged procedure involving ERCP/ stenting (group 2). Methods: 60 patients admitted to our department (mean age = 45.52, SD = 17.71, 15 males, 45 females) for the management of choledocholithiasis from April 2014 to October 2015 were included in the study. We reviewed retrospectively the patients' data including age, sex, duration of the surgery, intra-operative and postoperative complications, duration of hospital stay, mortality and condition on follow-up. Results: Group 1 included 30 patients (mean age 50.76, 21 females, 9 males). The average operative time in this group was 110 minutes (96–145), stone clearance rate was 100%, and average hospital stay was 3.2 days (2–9). Group 2 also included 30 patients (mean age 44.36, 24 females, 6 males) with stone clearance rate of 70% (21 out of 30), average operative time 120.7 minutes (90–167), average hospital stay 9.1 (3–30) days and an average of 2.3 procedures per patient. Conclusion: In our study mean operative time, stone clearance rate, average hospital stay and average number of procedures per patient were found to be significantly lower in laparoscopic CBD exploration group. It can be concluded that laparoscopic CBD exploration with cholecystectomy is much safer and cost effective than the conventional two staged procedure involving ERCP/ stenting.

Long-term Outcome of Primary Closure After Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration Combined With Choledochoscopy

BACKGROUND

Primary closure after laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) is considered to be a safe alternative to T-tube drainage on the basis of the short-term outcome. However, little published data exist regarding the biliary complications at the long-term follow-up of primary closure versus T-tube drainage following LCBDE. Hence, the aim of this study is to assess the long-term outcome of primary closure after LCBDE.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective study of 142 consecutive patients who underwent LCBDE combined with choledochoscopy for CBD stones. After LCBDE, the choledochotomy was closed by primary closure (group P) in 91 patients (64.1%) and with T-tube drainage (group T) in 51 patients (35.9%). The data on operative outcome and long-term biliary complications were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

The mean operation time was significantly shorter in group P than group T (168.9 ± 50.1 min for group P vs. 198.0 ± 59.6 min for group T, P = 0.002). The hospital stay was significantly shorter in group P than in group T (8.59 ± 6.0 d for group P vs. 14.96 ± 5.4 d for group T, P = 0.001). Postoperative bile leak occurred in 2 patients (2.2%) in group P and 1 patient (2.0%) in group T. With a mean follow-up of 48.8 months, the stone recurrence rate in group P and group T were 4.4% and 5.9%, respectively (P = 0.722). During the follow-up period, there was no sign of biliary stricture or other biliary complications in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The long-term follow-up data on primary closure after LCBDE indicated a low incidence of recurrent stones, and no biliary strictures. Thus, primary closure after LCBDE with choledochoscopy is considered to be a safe and effective alternative to T-tube drainage in terms of long-term outcome.

Results of Medium Seventeen Years' Follow-Up after Laparoscopic Choledochotomy for Ductal Stones

Introduction. In a previously published article the authors reported the long-term follow-up results in 138 consecutive patients with gallstones and common bile duct (CBD) stones who underwent laparoscopic transverse choledochotomy (TC) with T-tube biliary drainage and laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Aim of this study is to evaluate the results at up to 23 years of follow-up in the same series. Methods. One hundred twenty-one patients are the object of the present study. Patients were evaluated by clinical visit, blood assay, and abdominal ultrasound. Symptomatic patients underwent cholangio-MRI, followed by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) as required. Results. Out of 121 patients, 61 elderly patients died from unrelated causes. Fourteen patients were lost to follow-up. In the 46 remaining patients, ductal stone recurrence occurred in one case (2,1%) successfully managed by ERCP with endoscopic sphincterotomy. At a mean follow-up of 17.1 years no other patients showed signs of bile stasis and no patient showed any imaging evidence of CBD stricture at the site of choledochotomy. Conclusions. Laparoscopic transverse choledochotomy with routine T-tube biliary drainage during LC has proven to be safe and effective at up to 23 years of follow-up, with no evidence of CBD stricture when the procedure is performed with a correct technique.

Transcystic or transductal stone extraction during single-stage treatment of choledochocystolithiasis: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Choledochocystolithiasis can be managed by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography (ERCP) or laparoscopically by transcystic (TC) or transductal (TD) stone extraction.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to systematically review safety and effectiveness of combined endoscopic/laparoscopic management versus total laparoscopic management for choledochocystolithiasis with specific emphasis on TC versus TD stone extraction.

METHODS

MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and clinicaltrials.gov were searched systematically to identify trials on combined endoscopic/laparoscopic and total laparoscopic management for choledochocystolithiasis. Laparoscopic common bile duct (CBD) exploration was divided into TD and TC approach. Primary outcomes were successful stone clearance from CBD, postoperative/procedural morbidity, and mortality.

RESULTS

Eight randomized trials with 965 patients were included. Successful bile duct clearance varied between 52.6 and 97 % in the ERCP groups, 80.4 and 100 % in the TC groups, and 58.3 and 100 % in the TD groups. There were more bile leaks after TD stone extraction (11 %) than after ERCP (1 %) and TC stone extraction (1.7 %). Total morbidity varied between 9.1 and 38.3 % in the ERCP groups, 7 and 10.5 % in the TC groups, and 18.4 and 26.7 % in the TD groups. Methodological and statistical heterogeneity among the trials precluded a meaningful meta-analysis.

CONCLUSION

Stone clearance rates are comparable between the three modalities, but TD stone extraction is associated with a higher risk of bile leaks and should only be performed by highly experienced surgeons. TC stone extraction seems a more accessible technique with lower complication rates. If unsuccessful, per- or postoperative endoscopic stone extraction is a viable option.

One-Session Laparoscopic Management of Combined Common Bile Duct and Gallbladder Stones Versus Sequential ERCP Followed by Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

AIM

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of laparoscopic management of common bile duct (CBD) stones in a single session in comparison with two-session procedures including endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). The most popular approach to treat CBD stones that were detected before LC is with ERCP followed by LC. This two-session approach has some disadvantages, which include spontaneous passage of stones found on magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography while awaiting ERCP, the risk for CBD stone passage between ERCP and LC or during LC due to excessive gallbladder handling, and the need for multiple anesthesia sessions and hospital admissions within a short interval.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective outcome analysis was done for 150 patients with CBD stones treated either laparoscopically in a single session with either transcystic exploration (conducted in 23 cases) or CBD exploration (conducted in 46 cases) (Group I included 75 patients) or via two sessions using ERCP followed by cholecystectomy (Group II included 75 patients).

RESULTS

The rate of CBD clearance in Group I was 94.7%, whereas it was 97% in Group II. Group I is superior to Group II with regard to the operative time. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding conversion to the open procedure, hospital stay, or postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The single-session laparoscopic management of CBD stones is as safe and effective as the gold standard sequential ERCP followed by LC with nearly the same rate of success, hospital stay, and complications.

Primary closure and rate of bile leak following laparoscopic common bile duct exploration via choledochotomy

BACKGROUND

Choledocholithiasis is traditionally managed by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography or T-tube insertion following common bile duct exploration. This study examined the efficacy and safety of primary duct closure following laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) via choledochotomy.

METHODS

Between September 2011 and September 2013, 157 consecutive patients underwent LCBDE via choledochotomy.

RESULTS

Of 157 LCBDE procedures, 138 (87.9%) were successfully completed with primary closure of the choledochotomy. Eight patients (5.1%) underwent closure with T-tube drainage after choledochotomy and 11 patients (7.0%) were converted to open surgery. The biliary tree was free of stones at the end of surgery in 154 patients (98.1%). Postoperative bile leak occurred in 6 patients (3.8%). The median follow-up period was 18 (2-33) months, with no evidence of further bile duct stones or bile duct stricture in any patients. Univariable analysis revealed that successful duct clearance (p = 0.010) and diameter of the common bile duct (p < 0.001) were two significant risk factors for bile leak.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary duct closure following LCBDE is effective and safe for the management of choledocholithiasis. The postoperative bile leak rate may be low in skilled laparoscopic surgeons with a careful selection of patients.

Surgery for common bile duct stones--a lost surgical skill; still worthwhile in the minimally invasive century?

PURPOSE

Techniques of laparoscopic bile duct exploration have been reported for over 20 years. Despite the simplicity and success of these procedures, they have failed to become commonplace in most surgical departments, as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has become the preferred method for dealing with bile duct stones. There is a risk of surgeons not obtaining or losing these skills, which may still be required as a definitive treatment when ERCP fails or is not available.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This paper describes these laparoscopic operations, which can be performed to enable a 'one-stop shop' treatment of common bile duct stones (CBDS) at the time of cholecystectomy. In particular, transcystic basket clearance of the bile duct is possible in two-thirds of cases with very little increase in morbidity compared to routine cholecystectomy. The selection of patients who are most likely to be successfully treated with this technique is defined. Some of the authors have published large study series and prospective randomised trials, further refining the choices available to the surgeon who, when performing operative cholangiography, is already halfway to bile duct exploration.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery may reclaim this lost ground by offering an excellent and safe therapeutic option for many of the symptomatic CBDS.

Primary closure after laparoscopic common bile duct exploration versus T-tube

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) is now one of the main methods for treating choledocholithiasis accompanied with cholelithiasis. The objective of our study was to assess the safety and effectiveness of laparoscopic primary closure for the treatment of common bile duct (CBD) stones compared with T-tube drainage.

METHODS

Patients who underwent CBD stones were studied prospectively from 2002-2012 in a single center. A total of 194 patients were randomly assigned to group A (LCBDE with primary closure) with 101 cases and group B (LCBDE with T-tube drainage) with 93 cases. Intraoperative cholangiography and choledochoscopy were performed in all patients. Patient demographics, intraoperative findings, postoperative stay, complications, and hospital expenses were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

There was no mortality in the two groups. Four patients (3.96%) of group A were converted to open surgery, and three patients (3.23%) in group B. The mean operating time was much shorter in group A than in group B (102.6 ± 15.2 min versus 128.6 ± 20.4 min, P < 0.05). The length of postoperative hospital stay was longer in group B (4.9 ± 3.2 d) than in group A (3.2 ± 2.1 d). The hospital expenses were significantly lower in group A. Three patients experienced postoperative complications, which were related to the usage of the T-tube in group B. The incidences of overall postoperative complications were insignificantly lower in group A.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic primary closure of CBD is safe and effective for the management of CBD stones, and can be performed routinely as an alternative to T-tube drainage.

Long-term results of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration by choledochotomy for choledocholithiasis: 15-year experience from a single center

Purpose

The aim of this study is to assess the long-term results of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) and validate its effectiveness as a primary treatment modality for CBD stone.

Methods

A retrospective review of the medical records of 157 patients who underwent LCBDE from 1997 to 2011 was conducted. All LCBDE were performed by choledochotomy. Clinical demographics, operative outcome, recurrence rate of CBD stones, and long-term bile duct complications were analyzed. The mean follow-up period was 51.9 months.

Results

LCBDE was completed in 152 patients (96.8%) and 5 patients (3.2%) had open conversion. The male/female ratio was 78/79 and mean age was 67.3 years. Stone clearance was successful in 149 of 152 patients (98.0%). Nonlethal complications were noted in 11 patients (7.2%), including bile leakage in 6 patients (3.9%). Recurrent CBD stones developed in 9 of 152 patients (5.9%). Preoperative endoscopic sphincterotomy (P = 0.492) and choledochotomy repair type (T-tube drainage vs. primary closure, P = 0.740) were not significantly related to stone recurrence. There were no signs of any type of biliary injury or stricture observed in any of the patients during the follow-up period.

Conclusion

LCBDE can be performed without increased risk of long-term complications such as bile duct stricture and recurrent CBD stones. LCBDE is a safe and effective treatment option for choledocholithiasis in terms of long-term outcome as well as short-term outcome.

Single-stage laparoscopic common bile duct exploration and cholecystectomy versus two-stage endoscopic stone extraction followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy for patients with concomitant gallbladder stones and common bile duct stones: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The ideal method for managing concomitant gallbladder stones and common bile duct (CBD) stones is debatable. The currently preferred method is two-stage endoscopic stone extraction followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). This prospective randomized trial compared the success and cost effectiveness of single- and two-stage management of patients with concomitant gallbladder and CBD stones.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with concomitant gallbladder and CBD stones were randomized to either single-stage laparoscopic CBD exploration and cholecystectomy (group 1) or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for endoscopic extraction of CBD stones followed by LC (group 2). Success was defined as complete clearance of CBD and cholecystectomy by the intended method. Cost effectiveness was measured using the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. Intention-to-treat analysis was performed to compare outcomes.

RESULTS

From February 2009 to October 2012, 168 patients were randomized: 84 to the single-stage procedure (group 1) and 84 to the two-stage procedure (group 2). Both groups were matched with regard to demographic and clinical parameters. The success rates of laparoscopic CBD exploration and ERCP for clearance of CBD were similar (91.7 vs. 88.1 %). The overall success rate also was comparable: 88.1 % in group 1 and 79.8 % in group 2 (p = 0.20). Direct choledochotomy was performed in 83 of the 84 patients. The mean operative time was significantly longer in group 1 (135.7 ± 36.6 vs. 72.4 ± 27.6 min; p ≤ 0.001), but the overall hospital stay was significantly shorter (4.6 ± 2.4 vs. 5.3 ± 6.2 days; p = 0.03). Group 2 had a significantly greater number of procedures per patient (p < 0.001) and a higher cost (p = 0.002). The two groups did not differ significantly in terms of postoperative wound infection rates or major complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Single- and two-stage management for uncomplicated concomitant gallbladder and CBD stones had similar success and complication rates, but the single-stage strategy was better in terms of shorter hospital stay, need for fewer procedures, and cost effectiveness.

Synchronous vs sequential laparoscopic cholecystectomy for cholecystocholedocholithiasis

AIM: To compare synchronous laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) combined with endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) and sequential LC combined with EST for treating cholecystocholedocholithiasis.

METHODS: A total of 150 patients were included and retrospectively studied. Among these, 70 were selected for the synchronous operation, in which the scheme was endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography combined with EST during LC. The other 80 patients were selected for the sequential operation, in which the scheme involved first cutting the papillary muscle under endoscopy and then performing LC. The indexes in the two groups, including the operation time, the success rate, the incidence of complications, and the length of the hospital stay, were observed.

RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of the numbers of patients, sex distribution, age, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, serum bilirubin, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, mean diameter of common bile duct stones, and previous medical and surgical history (P = 0.54, P = 0.18, P = 0.52, P = 0.22, P = 0.32, P = 0.42, P = 0.68, P = 0.70, P = 0.47 and P = 0.57). There was no significant difference in the surgical operation time between the two groups (112.1 ± 30.8 min vs 104.9 ± 18.2 min). Compared with the sequential operation group, the incidence of pancreatitis was lower (1.4% vs 6.3%), the incidence of hyperamylasemia (1.4% vs 10.0%, P < 0.05) was significantly reduced, and the length of the hospital stay was significantly shortened in the synchronous operation group (3 d vs 4.5 d, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: For treatment of cholecystocholedocholithiasis, synchronous LC combined with EST reduces incidence of complications, decreases length of hospital stay, simplifies the surgical procedure, and reduces operation time.

Results of laparoscopic bile duct exploration via choledochotomy

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic bile duct exploration (LBDE) is well established although the results via choledochotomy are relatively poorly documented. This report evaluates the results achieved by a single surgeon operating in one institution on an unselected group of patients using modern instrumentation.

METHODS

Over a 3-year period, 56 consecutive patients underwent LBDE via choledochotomy utilizing flexible choledochoscopy.

RESULTS

The median age was 61 years (range 20-90) and the mean body mass index was 29 (21-47). There were 15 patients (27%) who had emergency operations for jaundice with a mean preoperative bilirubin level of 10 umol/L (41-248). Fourteen patients (25%) had undergone failed preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Contact electrohydraulic lithotripsy was used in 8 patients (14%) and t-tubes were inserted in 6 patients (11%) with the remainder having primary closure. There was major morbidity in 6 patients (11%) including conversion to open surgery in 1 and relaparoscopy in 3. Three patients had positive t-tube cholangiograms giving a laparoscopic clearance rate of 93% (52 patients). The median postoperative length of stay was 2.5 days (1-15). The median follow-up was 56.1 weeks (interquartile range 23.4-110.7) with no recurrent stones, strictures or late gallstone abscess.

CONCLUSIONS

LBDE via choledochotomy is safe and effective but there is a definite morbidity rate. It requires significant investment in equipment, and skill with flexible endoscopy and laparoscopic suturing.

A prospective randomized trial comparing two-stage versus single-stage management of patients with gallstone disease and common bile duct stones

BACKGROUND

The optimal management of patients with concomitant common bile duct stones and gallstones is still evolving. With the introduction of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration, many centers prefer single-stage laparoscopic cholecystectomy and common bile duct exploration over preoperative endoscopic bile duct clearance followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The present study was done to compare these two management options.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

30 patients with symptomatic gallstones and common bile duct stones were randomized to either treatment option. Preoperative endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and/or magnetic resonance pancreaticography (MRCP) was done in all patients to confirm the diagnosis. In group I, laparoscopic cholecystectomy and common bile duct exploration was done at the same sitting; in group II, endoscopic stone clearance was followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy 4-6 weeks later. Success was defined as successful treatment by the intended modality.

RESULTS

15 patients were randomized to each group and the two groups had comparable demographic and clinical profile. In group I there was a success rate of 93.5% in comparison with 86.7% in group II (p = 0.32, Fisher's exact test). The complications were similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The results showed equivalent success rate in terms of morbidity and hospital stay. Laparoscopic approach seems to be favorable because of the smaller number of procedures and hospital visits.

Simultaneous laparoendoscopic rendezvous for the treatment of cholecystocholedocholithiasis

BACKGROUND

Different approaches are available for the treatment of combined cholecystocholedocholithiasis including totally laparoscopic (TL) treatment, simultaneous laparoendoscopic treatment, and sequential treatments (ST) combining endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) with cholecystectomy. This review aimed to clarify the issue of the simultaneous laparoendoscopic rendezvous (RV).

METHODS

A careful analysis of papers was performed to determine the results, technical differences, limits, disadvantages, and advantages of RV compared with other options.

RESULTS

Data were collected from 27 papers concerning 795 patients. The overall effectiveness of RV was 92.3%. The morbidity rate was 5.1%, and the mortality rate was 0.37%. Almost all the authors were satisfied with the procedure. The authors' comparison to ST and TL showed that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages mostly related to logistical problems.

CONCLUSIONS

There is confusion concerning the definitions and techniques of RV due to differences in combining surgical and endoscopic steps of the procedure. The results are at least comparable with those of the other available approaches. The effectiveness of RV is greater with reciprocal implementation of surgical and endoscopic procedures. The morbidity and the risk of iatrogenic damage seem lower than with ERCP-ES and the risk of residual stones lower than with TL treatment. The RV procedure is safe and can sometimes be the preferable option, but collaboration between surgeon and endoscopist is mandatory.

Primary closure versus T-tube drainage after open choledochotomy

BACKGROUND

Choledochotomy followed by T-tube has long been a standard surgical treatment for choledocholithiasis. It is still a preferred choice in many hospitals where minimal invasive procedures are not feasible. The use of T-tube is not without complications. To avoid the complications associated with T-tube, we have performed primary closure of the common bile duct (CBD) after exploration. This pilot study assesses the safety of primary closure of CBD, which would help form a basis for implementation on a wider scale.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the clinical results of primary closure with T-tube drainage after open choledochotomy and assess the safety of primary closure for future application on a greater mass.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This comparative study was conducted at surgical unit IV Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, from January 2007 to December 2007. Thirty-five patients were included in the study of which 16 patients underwent primary closure.

RESULTS

Thirty-five patients were included in the study. The mean age of patients who had primary closure done (n = 16) was 46.0 +/-16.8 and there were two (12.5%) males and 14 (87.5%) females. After primary closure of the CBD, bile leakage was noted in one patient (6.3%), which subsided without any biliary peritonitis as compared to the T-tube group in which two patients (10.5%) had bile leakage. Postoperative jaundice was seen in one patient (5.3%) who had a T-tube because of a blockage of CBD. Not a single patient had a retained stone in both groups as well as no recurrence of CBD stones. The postoperative hospital stay after primary closure was 5.56 +/-1.1 days as compared to after T-tube drainage which was 13.6 +/-2.3 days. The total cost of treatment in patients who underwent primary closure was USD194.5 +/-41.5 but after T-tube drainage it was USD548.6 +/-88.5. The median follow up duration for both groups was 6 months.

CONCLUSION

Primary CBD closure is a safe and cost effective alternative to routine T-tube drainage after open choledochotomy.

Is laparoscopic fiberoptic choledochoscopy for common bile duct stones a fine option or a mandatory step?

BACKGROUND

Because choledochoscopy often is a challenging maneuver, it would be advantageous to define the real utility of its use. This study aimed to compare blind exploration of the common bile duct (CBD) with choledochoscopy-assisted CBD stone removal in terms of patient outcome and complication rate.

METHODS

Two groups of patients were prospectively evaluated in a 4-year period. The study participants were 36 men and 27 women randomized to group A (n = 32) for a blind basket procedure or group B (n = 31) for a choledochoscopy-assisted procedure as the first step of laparoscopic CBD stone removal. Patients with preoperatively suspected CBD stones (n = 51) and those with unsuspected stones (n = 12) were included. The two groups did not differ significantly in terms of anagraphics, American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score, or previous surgery. All the procedures were performed by surgeons skilled in this surgical field. Choledochoscopy, when used, was always performed with the instrument connected to a camera monitor that had a wide vision, whether in a single-monitor, in a picture-in-picture manner, or with the use of an additional monitor.

RESULTS

From March 2004 to April 2008, 63 patients undergoing CBD exploration for stone removal were enrolled in the study. Five of these patients had undergone previous endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)/endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES). The mean operative time was 107 min for group A and 122 min for group B. The mean hospital stay was 3 days for group A and 3.6 days for group B. Clearance of CBD stones was achieved laparoscopically in 62 cases. One patient required open combined transduodenal papilloplasty and transcholedochotomy. In seven cases, blind basket exploration was unable to remove the stones according to the cholangiogram, so choledochoscopy was required. Six patients underwent a transversal coledocothomy for stone removal. A Kehr T-tube was placed in four of these patients. In four group A cases, the papilla was inadvertently passed during the procedure. In six group A cases, including the four aforementioned cases, a high level of amylases was found on postoperative day 1. At this writing, no late complications or stone recurrences have been observed in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

The laparoscopic basket blind technique and choledochoscopy are safe and effective for CBD stone removal. However, the latter seems to be better in terms of a higher stone removal rate and fewer minor complications despite its longer operation time. In the authors' opinion, it may be preferable to reserve ERCP for very high-risk patients, taking into account that in addition to the related complications, it results in an approximate 10% rate of recurrent or persistent stones.

[Advantages of laparoscopic stented choledochorrhaphy. Six years experience]

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) is nowadays a valid option in the management of common bile duct stones. T tube and primary closure have been used to close the choledochotomy, but these methods are not free of complications. We present our experience with the stented choledochorrhaphy.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

We retrospectively reviewed the data of 104 patients, who underwent LCBDE between January 1999 and February 2007. T tube was used in the first period. From July 2001 the method of choice has been the closure of the CBD over an endoprosthesis placed under direct view and later removed by gastroscopy.

RESULTS

The technique was performed on 70 consecutive patients. Median operation time was 90 minutes. There was no conversion to open surgery. Stones could not be retrieved in 4.2% of patients. The median hospital stay was 4 days. Morbidity was 7%, although only 2.8% was related to the stent (acute pancreatitis). Postoperative mortality was 1.4%.

CONCLUSIONS

The stented laparoscopic choledochorrhaphy allows an efficient biliary decompression, and seems to avoid the complications of the T tube and primary closure. This method should be considered as a valid option after choledochotomy.

Laparo-endoscopic “Rendezvous” to treat cholecysto-choledocolithiasis: Effective, safe and simplifies the endoscopist’s work

AIM: To investigate our clinical experience with combined laparo-endoscopic Rendezvous (RV) for the treatment of patients affected by gallstones and common bile duct (CBD) stones and especially to study the never evaluated opinion of the endoscopist concerning the difficulty of the intraoperative endoscopic procedure during the RV in comparison with standard endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP).

METHODS: Eighty consecutive patients affected by cholecystolithiasis and diagnosed or suspected CBD stones were treated with a standardized “tailored” RV. The relevant technical features, the feasibility, the effectiveness in stone clearance, the safety but also the simple evaluation of difficulty and agreement of the endoscopist were analyzed with a questionnaire.

RESULTS: The feasibility was 97.5% and the effectiveness 100% concerning CBD clearance and solution of coexisting problems at the papilla. Minor morbidity was 3.3%, the operating time was prolonged by a mean of 14 min, the mean hospital stay was 3.8 d and only one stone’s recurrence occurred. The endoscopist evaluated the procedure to be simpler than standard ERCP-ES in 81.2% of the cases.

CONCLUSION: Simultaneous RV carries high effectiveness and safety at least comparable to those reported for other options. The endoscopist is very often satisfied with this approach because of the minimization of some steps of the endoscopic procedure and avoidance of relevant iatrogenic risk factors. If the mandatory collaboration between surgeons and endoscopists is guaranteed, this approach can often be preferable for the patient, the surgeon, the endoscopist and the hospital.

[Single-stage management of common duct stones by video-assisted laparoscopy. Analysis of 10 years' experience]

INTRODUCTION

The management of patients with gallstone disease and ductal calculi is controversial. The main options are one-stage or two-stage management.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

We performed a retrospective analysis of the experience gained over 10 years in the one-stage management of common duct stones in a high-volume tertiary hospital.

RESULTS

A total of 569 patients were initially treated by laparoscopy. Of these, 412 (76.3%) underwent the transcystic approach, 128 (23.7%) underwent laparoscopic choledochotomy and 29 (5%) were converted to open surgery. Overall morbidity and mortality were 2.46% and 0.52%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In high-volume centers, one-stage laparoscopic management of common duct stones is safe and feasible, with a high proportion of patients that only require a transcystic approach.

INLINE RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION-ASSISTED LAPAROSCOPIC LIVER RESECTION: FIRST EXPERIMENT WITH STAPLING DEVICE

BACKGROUND

In liver surgery, the increase in advancement of laparoscopic equipment has allowed the feasibility and safety of complex laparoscopic liver resection. However, blood loss and the potential risk of gas embolism seem to be the main obstacles. In this study, we successfully used the InLine radiofrequency ablation (RFA) device to carry out laparoscopic hand-assisted liver resection in pigs.

METHODS

Under general anaesthesia with tracheal intubation, pigs underwent InLine RFA-assisted laparoscopic liver resection. After installation of Hand Port and trocars, the InLine RFA device was introduced through Hand Port system and inserted into the premarked resection line. Then the generator was turned on and the power was applied according to the power setting. The resection was finally carried out using diathermy or stapler. For the control group, resection was simply carried out by diathermy or stapler.

RESULTS

Eight Landrace pigs underwent 23 liver resections. Blood loss was reduced significantly in the InLine group (P<0.001) when compared with control group in both surgical methods (diathermy and stapler).

CONCLUSION

In this study, we successfully carried out InLine RFA-assisted laparoscopic liver resection in both stapled and diathermy group. We showed that there was a highly significant difference between InLine and other liver resection techniques laparoscopically.

Thirteen years' experience with laparoscopic transcystic common bile duct exploration for stones. Effectiveness and long-term results

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness and long-term results of laparoscopic transcystic common bile duct exploration (TC-CBDE).

METHODS

Ductal stones were present in 344 of 3212 patients (10.7%) who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). The procedure was completed laparoscopically in 329 patients (95.6%), with TC-CBDE performed in 191 patients (58.1%) who are the object of this study, or with a transverse choledochotomy in 138 cases (41.9%).

RESULTS

Biliary drainage was employed in 71 of 191 cases (37.2%). Major complications occurred in 10 patients (5.1%), including retained stones in 6 (3.1%). Mortality was nil. No patients were lost to follow-up (median: 118.0 months; range: 17.6-168 months). No signs of bile stasis, no recurrent ductal stones and no biliary stricture were observed. At present 182 patients are alive with no biliary symptoms; 9 have died from unrelated causes.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term follow-up after laparoscopic TC-CBDE proved its effectiveness and safety for single-stage management of gallstones and common bile duct stones.