Is the addition of choleretic agents in multiple double-pigtail biliary stents effective for difficult common bile duct stones in elderly patients? A prospective, multicenter study

Assessing the degree of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury using physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling of sodium fluorescein disposition in ex vivo machine-perfused livers

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is an intrinsic risk associated with liver transplantation. Ex vivo hepatic machine perfusion (MP) is an emerging organ preservation technique that can mitigate IRI, especially in livers subjected to prolonged warm ischemia time (WIT). However, a method to quantify the biological response to WIT during MP has not been established. Previous studies used physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling to demonstrate that a decrease in hepatic transport and biliary excretion of the tracer molecule sodium fluorescein (SF) could correlate with increasing WIT in situ. Furthermore, these studies proposed intracellular sequestration of the hepatocyte canalicular membrane transporter multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 (MRP2) leading to decreased MRP2 activity (maximal transport velocity; Vmax) as the potential mechanism for decreased biliary SF excretion. We adapted an extant PBPK model to account for ex vivo hepatic MP and fit a six-parameter version of this model to control time-course measurements of SF in MP perfusate and bile. We then identified parameters whose values were likely insensitive to changes in WIT and fixed them to generate a reduced model with only three unknown parameters. Finally, we fit the reduced model to each individual biological replicate SF time course with differing WIT, found the mean estimated value for each parameter, and compared them using a one-way ANOVA. We demonstrated that there was a significant decrease in the estimated value of Vmax for MRP2 at the 30-min WIT. These studies provide the foundation for future studies investigating real-time assessment of liver viability during ex vivo MP.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We developed a computational model of sodium fluorescein (SF) biliary excretion in ex vivo machine perfusion and used this model to assess changes in model parameters associated with the activity of MRP2, a hepatocyte membrane transporter, in response to increasing warm ischemia time. We found a significant decrease in the parameter value describing MRP2 activity, consistent with a role of decreased MRP2 function in ischemia-reperfusion injury leading to decreased secretion of SF into bile.

Endoscopic papillary large balloon dilatation-assisted retrieval of a proximally migrated double pigtail stent from the bile duct: A case report

Double-pigtail stents are commonly used for drainage in cholangitis to prevent stent migration. We report a case in which a double pigtail stent had migrated proximally into the bile duct and was successfully retrieved after endoscopic papillary large balloon dilatation (EPLBD). An 86-year-old man underwent endoscopic papillary sphincterotomy for cholangitis due to common bile duct stones and had a double-pigtail stent placed in the common bile duct. The patient presented a week later for endoscopic biliary stone removal, but the stent had migrated proximally and could not be visualized during the endoscopy. Endoscopic papillary large balloon dilatation was performed to dilate the papilla to a diameter of 12 mm, following which the stent was grasped and removed. The biliary calculi were subsequently extracted, and the procedure was completed without any complications. This case highlights the potential usefulness of endoscopic papillary large balloon dilatation for retrieving a double-pigtail stent that has migrated to the bile duct.

Large common bile duct stones in high-risk elderly patients: Immediate endoscopic stone removal or elective stone removal? A single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

For high-risk elderly patients with chronic diseases, endoscopic stone removal for large common bile duct stones is associated with a high risk of adverse events and incomplete stone removal. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the treatment strategy of short-term biliary plastic stent placement followed by elective endoscopic stone removal is more effective and safer than immediate endoscopic stone removal.

METHODS

The data of 262 high-risk elderly patients who received endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for large common bile duct (CBD) stones from 2017 to 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into group A (immediate stone removal) and group B (stent drainage + elective stone removal). The baseline data of the 2 groups were matched 1:1 by propensity score matching. The stone clearance rate, ERCP procedure time, total hospital stay, and procedure-related adverse events were compared between the matched groups. In group B, stone size before and after stent placement, hospital stay, procedure time and adverse events of two ERCPs were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 57 pairs of patients were successfully matched between the 2 groups. The stone clearance rate in group B was higher than that in group A (89.5% vs. 75.3, P = 0.049). The total hospital stay in group B was longer than that in group A (11.86 ± 3.912 d vs. 19.14 ± 3.176 d, P<0.001). The total adverse event rate in group A was higher than that in group B (29.8% vs. 12.3%, P = 0.005). The incidence of cholangitis/cholecystitis after ERCP was significantly higher in group A than in group B (7.0% vs. 0.9% P = 0.029). There was no significant difference in the incidence of post-ERCP pancreatitis, bleeding, pneumonia, and cardio-cerebrovascular events between the 2 groups. There were no perforation cases in either group. After plastic biliary stent placement in group B, the stone size was significantly smaller than before stent placement (1.59 ± 0.544 cm vs. 1.95 ± 0.543 cm, P < 0.001), and there was no significant difference in the total adverse event incidence between the two ERCP procedures (18.8% vs. 10.9%, P = 0.214).

CONCLUSION

For high-risk elderly patients with large CBD stones, the treatment strategy involving temporary placement of plastic stent and elective endoscopic stone removal is safer and more effective than immediate stone removal.

Fully Covered Metal Stents Safely Facilitate Extraction of Difficult Bile Duct Stones

BACKGROUND

Ten to 15% of the common bile duct (CBD) stones require advanced endoscopic extraction techniques during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fully covered self-expandable metal stents (FC-SEMS) for facilitating the extraction of difficult bile duct stones.

METHODS

Patients who received FC-SEMS for the extraction of difficult CBD stones were retrospectively reviewed. Group 1 included patients with extrahepatic stones above a distal CBD stricture, Group 2 included patients with intrahepatic stones above a hilar stricture, and Group 3 included patients with complex stone(s) and no biliary stricture. Complete stone clearance rate and complications of FC-SEMS treatment were evaluated.

RESULTS

The study group included 33 procedures on 32 patients (mean age: 55±17, 56.3% male). FC-SEMS was placed as a primary treatment in 15 (45.5%) procedures. Complete stone clearance was achieved in 84.6% of the procedures in Group 1, 100% in Group 2, and 87.5% in Group 3 ( P =0.23). Overall, complete stone clearance was achieved in 30 of the 33 procedures (90.9%). None of the patients developed pancreatitis, cholecystitis, or cholangitis. Stent migration occurred in 4 procedures (12.1%), and all were clinically insignificant.

CONCLUSION

FC-SEMS is effective and safe for facilitating treatment of difficult bile duct stones.

Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Clearance, is It Feasible and Safe After Failed Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography?

Introduction: Concomitant gallstones and common bile duct (CBD) stones is a common problem, and there is still no consensus on the best approach in the management. Options include preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) with CBD exploration, and LC with postoperative ERCP. Each option has its own limitations and complications. In this article, we assessed the feasibility of laparoscopic surgical clearance of the CBD after a failed ERCP, reasons for failure of endoscopic clearance in our cohort. We will discuss the management options after ERCP failure, the challenges, and the outcomes. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all the cases of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) performed in our hospital between April 2006 and January 2019. Two hundred cases were performed, 178 cases as a primary procedure while 22 were performed as a secondary procedure after failed ERCP. We have previously published data on the case series (PMID 33140155) and here explored the cases performed after failed ERCP as a secondary procedure. We analyzed demographics of patients, preoperative investigations, ERCP trials, and reasons for ERCP failure, operative approach, duration of operation, conversion rate, complications, and outcomes. Results: Twenty-two patients underwent a laparoscopic CBD clearance after failed ERCP. Sixteen of these were in the first 5 years of the study. Multiple attempts of ERCP were made in 7 patients (31.8%) and a single attempt in 15 patients. In 8 patients (32%), the duct was not accessible (failed cannulation) due to a variety of reasons. Nine patients had impacted stones larger than 1 cm, 4 patients had Mirrizi syndrome with concomitant large CBD stones, and 1 patient failed endoscopic clearance because of the large number of stones in the CBD. CBD clearance was successful in 19 patients (88%), 8 were completed by a transcystic approach and 14 by a transcholedochal approach. Postoperative length of stay was 12 (+10) days. One patient had an unplanned readmission within 30 days. One patient required reoperation for bleeding. Three patients developed recurrent stones and 1 developed a subsequent stricture. No mortalities were recorded. Conclusion: LCBDE is feasible and appears safe as a secondary procedure after failed ERCP. The new technologies and the advancement of surgical techniques will continue to improve success and reduce morbidity.

Endoscopic Management of Complex Biliary Stones

Complex biliary stones may be challenging to remove with standard endoscopic techniques. Factors contributing to complexity include large stone size (≥15 mm), multiple stones, high stone:distal duct ratio, stones above strictures and those in difficult anatomic position. In these cases, additional techniques may be needed, such as endoscopic papillary large balloon dilatation, mechanical lithotripsy, cholangioscopic visually directed lithotripsy, and extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy. The choice of technique depends on local expertise and resources. Cases should be planned to identify the appropriate technique to avoid multiple procedures. This article describes the factors linked to difficulty and the steps to overcome them.

Management of Difficult Choledocholithiasis

Over 30% of all endoscopic retrograde cholangiography procedures in the US are associated with biliary stone extraction, and over 10-15% of these cases are noted to be complex or difficult. The aim of this review is to define the characteristics of difficult common bile duct stones and provide an algorithmic therapeutic approach to these difficult cases. We describe additional special clinical circumstances in which difficult biliary stones are identified and provide additional management strategies to aid endoscopic stone extraction efforts.

Difficult Biliary Stones: A Comprehensive Review of New and Old Lithotripsy Techniques

Biliary stones represent the most common indication for therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Many cases are successfully managed with biliary sphincterotomy and stone extraction with balloon or basket catheters. However, more complex conditions secondary to the specific features of stones, the biliary tract, or patient’s needs could make the stone extraction with the standard techniques difficult. Traditionally, mechanical lithotripsy with baskets has been reported as a safe and effective technique to achieve stone clearance. More recently, the increasing use of endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation and the diffusion of single-operator cholangioscopy with laser or electrohydraulic lithotripsy have brought new, safe, and effective therapeutic possibilities to the management of such challenging cases. We here summarize the available evidence about the endoscopic management of difficult common bile duct stones and discuss current indications of different lithotripsy techniques.

Is the use of fully covered metal stents effective in the treatment of difficult lithiasis of the common bile duct?

BACKGROUND

The management of difficult lithiasis of common bile duct (CBD) often requires a multimodal approach. Fully Covered Metal Stents (FCSEMS) could fragment the stones, dilate strictures of the CBD and progressively enlarge the papillary orifice. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of FCSEMS in the treatment of difficult lithiasis of CBD.

METHODS

All consecutive cases of difficult lithiasis of CBD after an attempt of clearance with complete sphincterotomy were retrospectively considered from 2009 to 2019. Intrahepatic lithiasis cases were excluded. Multivariable analysis (stepwise logistic regression if p value < 0.1 at univariable analysis) was made to understand factors associated with efficacy of FCSEMS in difficult lithiasis of CBD.

RESULTS

163 cases of difficult lithiasis over 1516 cases of lithiasis of CBD (incidence of 11%) were considered. Among eligible patients, 96 (mean age 78 ± 11.9 years, 43% males) placed a FCSEMS during the first ERCP. Mean diameter of stone was 17.5 ± 5.5 mm. An attempt of dilation during the same procedure was made in 18% cases. After removal of the stent, 52 (54%) patients had complete clearance of CBD at cholangiography. The rest of patients (44), subsequently underwent multimodal treatment (final success of 95%). After logistic regression, variables positively associated with clearance of CBD were sex male (OR 3.5) and stent permanence ≥ 30 days (OR 3.2). Diameter of the stone ≥ 2 cm was associated with failure (OR 0.2). 7 post-ERCP pancreatitis, 6 post-sphincterotomy bleeding and 3 cholangitis occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

FCSEMS are useful in the approach of difficult lithiasis of CBD with no significant adverse events associated.

Tactics and techniques of choledochal sanation after papillotomy

Сholelithiasis ranks third in terms of the prevalence of diseases among the adult population. A complication such as choledocholithiasis occurs in up to 33% of patients with gallstone disease. Despite the improvement in treatment methods and the use of “gold” standards, the number of complicated forms of cholelithiasis has no tendency to decrease. Timely resolution of choledocholithiasis by a correctly chosen technique helps to reduce complications and increases the frequency of favorable outcomes of the disease, returning patients to social activity.

That is why it is important to know and, if possible, to use various methods of rehabilitation of the common bile duct when performing modern endoscopic transpapillary interventions.

Association of long-term endoscopic biliary stent placement with choledocholithiasis: a literature review

Endoscopic stone removal is currently the first-line procedure for the treatment of common bile duct stones. Advances in equipment and treatment techniques have expanded the scope of application of endoscopic treatment to include stones that have previously been difficult to remove endoscopically, such as stacked stones and large stones. For the treatment of common bile duct stones in elderly patients in particular, long-term placement of a biliary stent is increasingly being selected. Although periodic stent replacement is required, some reports have stated that biliary stenting is useful in terms of treatment-associated invasiveness and the incidence of accidental complications. To date, various opinions have been presented on whether the treatment of bile duct stones should aim for complete removal of stones or adopt the biliary stenting approach. Findings in previous reports suggest that both the approach for complete stone removal and the long-term stenting approach are associated with advantages and disadvantages. In this study, we reviewed previous reports on the significance of placing a stent and implementing careful monitoring rather than stone removal in patients with bile duct stones.

Endoscopic Transpapillary Gallbladder Drainage for Acute Cholecystitis using Two Gallbladder Stents (Dual Gallbladder Stenting)

Background/Aims

Endoscopic transpapillary gallbladder drainage (ETPGBD) is gaining popularity for the management of acute cholecystitis (AC) in high-risk patients. However, the stents placed during the procedure are not immune to obstruction. Here we describe a novel technique of stenting with two transpapillary stents and evaluate its technical feasibility, safety, and efficacy in AC.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of all patients undergoing ETPGBD using dual stents for AC at our institution between November 1, 2017 and August 31, 2020 was conducted. We abstracted patient data to evaluate technical and clinical success, adverse events, and long-term outcomes. Two stents were placed either during the index procedure or during an interval procedure performed 4–6 weeks after the index procedure.

Results

A total of 21 patients underwent ETPGBD with dual stenting (57.14% male, mean age: 62.14±17.21 years). The median interval between the placement of the first and the second stents was 37 days (range: 0–226 days). Technical and clinical success rates were 100%, with a recurrence rate of 4.76% (n=1) and adverse event rate of 9.52% (n=2) during a mean follow-up period of 471.74±345.64 days (median: 341 days, range: 55–1084 days).

Conclusions

ETPGBD with dual gallbladder stenting is a safe and effective technique for long-term gallbladder drainage in non-surgical candidates. Larger controlled studies are needed to validate our findings for the widespread implementation of this technique.

Endoscopic Biliary Decompression by Dual Stents in Elderly Patients with Acute Cholangitis of Severe Type due to Choledocholithiasis

Background/Aims: Both endoscopic nasobiliary drainage (ENBD) and a plastic stent placement have some limitations in biliary decompression of elderly patients with acute cholangitis of severe type (ACST) due to choledocholithiasis. Dual stent placement may improve bile drainage without obvious discomfort. Here, we evaluated its advantages in the biliary decompression of elderly patients with ACST. Materials and Methods: A total of 257 elderly patients (≥65 years) with ACST had undergone urgent endoscopic decompression by nasobiliary catheter (ENBD group), single plastic stent (single-stent group), or dual plastic stents (dual-stent group). The data of the three groups was compared retrospectively. Results: The demographic data of the patients in the three groups were comparable. After endoscopic decompression, the serum total bilirubin and γ-glutamyl transferase levels in the dual-stent group were decreased faster than that in the single-stent group (P < .05). The abdominal pain in the dual-stent group was dramatically slighter than that in the ENBD group (P < .05). Compared with two other groups, the acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II scores were decreased dramatically quicker (P < .05) and the length of intensive care unit stay was significantly shorter (P < .05) in the dual-stent group. In the second endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, the rate of complete stone clearance in the dual-stent group was significantly higher than that in the ENBD group (P < .05). Conclusions: Dual-stent placement might be a better choice for elderly patients with ACST due to choledocholithiasis in comparison with ENBD or a single-stent placement.

Cracking Difficult Biliary Stones

Apart from difficult biliary cannulation, biliary stone removal is considered one of the hurdles in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Generally, simple common bile duct (CBD) stones can be removed either with an extraction balloon or a basket. However, there are difficult stones that cannot be removed using these standard methods. The most difficult stones are large CBD stones and impacted stones in a tapering CBD. A few decades ago, mechanical lithotripsy was usually required to manage these stones. At present, endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation (EPLBD) of the biliary orifice has become the gold standard for large CBD stones up to 1.5 cm. EPLBD can reduce the procedural time by shortening the stone removal process. It can also save the cost of the devices, especially multiple baskets, used in mechanical lithotripsy. Unfortunately, very large CBD stones, stones impacted in a tapering CBD, and some intrahepatic duct stones still require lithotripsy. Peroral cholangioscopy provides direct visualization of the stone, which helps the endoscopist perform a probe-based lithotripsy either with an electrohydraulic probe or a laser probe. This technique can facilitate the management of difficult CBD stones with a high success rate and save procedural time without significant technical complications.

Endoscopic Management of Complex Biliary Stone Disease

Choledocholithiasis is a common disorder that is managed universally by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). For difficult or complex stones, ERCP with conventional techniques may fail to achieve biliary clearance in 10% to 15% of cases. This review summarizes the literature regarding the current available endoscopic techniques for complex stone disease, including mechanical lithotripsy, endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation, cholangioscopy-guided lithotripsy, and endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary access.

Experimental study on the friction effect of plastic stents for biliary stone fragmentation (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIM

In patients with irretrievable or intractable bile duct stone, temporary insertion of a plastic stent (PS) followed by further endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) or surgery has been recommended as a 'bridge' therapy. However, the exact mechanism of stone fragmentation has not been discovered. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether PS shape can facilitate stone fragmentation.

METHODS

Using a new in vitro bile flow phantom model, we compared the friction effect among three different PS groups (straight PS group, double pigtail-shaped PS group, and screw-shaped PS group) and a control group. Each group had 10 silicon tube blocks that separately contained one stone and two PS. The control group had 10 blocks each with only a stone and no PS. We carried out analysis of the friction effect by stone weight and volume changes among the groups, excluding fragmented stones.

RESULTS

After 8 weeks, complete fragmentation was noted in one out of 34 cholesterol stones (2.9%) and in four out of six pigmented stones (66.7%). Fragmentation tended to be more prominent in the screw-shaped PS group than in the straight PS group, double pigtail-shaped group, and control group (volume change: -11.33%, 7.94%, 4.43%, and 2.05%, respectively, P = 0.1390; weight change: -9.30%, 0.71%, -0.10%, and -1.23%, respectively, P = 0.3553).

CONCLUSION

Stone fragmentation may be induced by PS friction effect. Also, screw-shaped plastic stents may improve friction effect. These results may help guide future PS development and clinical decisions.

Multiple plastic biliary stent placement in the management of large and multiple choledochal stones: single center experience and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with sphincterotomy is the first step treatment modality of choledocholithiasis. In spite of an extended sphincterotomy, 10-15% of complex choledochal stones (larger than 15 mm and/or more than 3 stones) cannot be removed and recurrent ERCP procedures may be needed.

AIM

To evaluate the role and efficiency of multiple biliary stent application in the treatment of large and multiple choledochal stones.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Patients with complex choledochal stones and patients with inadequate choledochal clearance during ERCP were included in the study. The study group was divided into 2 groups as the placement of single (n = 27 patients) or multiple stents (n = 58 patients). After a mean time interval of 21 days (10-28), the ERCP procedure was tried for the second time and a stent was placed in case of recurrence.

RESULTS

Successful biliary drainage was provided in both groups. The decrease in the longitudinal or transverse size of the stones after stent placement was found to be statistically significant in both groups (p = 0.001). Cholestatic enzymes (alkaline phosphatase (ALP), γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT)) and bilirubin levels decreased significantly in both groups following stenting (p = 0.001). Additionally, multiple stents functioned as a bridge starting from the first ERCP to full clearance in patients with large and multiple stones which could not be removed at once and saved them from the possible morbidities of an invasive operation.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic multiple biliary stent placement should be preferred in the treatment of patients with complex choledochal stones and high rates of co-morbidity, as a safe alternative to surgery.

The Stent Patency and Migration Rate of Different Shaped Plastic Stents in Bile Flow Phantom Model and In Vivo Animal Bile Duct Dilation Model

BACKGROUND/AIM

In research and development of biliary plastic stents (PS), continuous efforts have been made to overcome short patency time and high rate of migration. The aim of this study was to evaluate the patency and migration rate of different PS shapes for a given period of time.

METHODS

Using an in vitro bile phantom model, we compared the patency among different shapes of PS (three straight PS, four double-pigtail PS, and a new screw-shaped PS). We performed an analysis of the degree of luminal narrowing by light microscopic examination. Using an in vivo swine model, we compared the patency and migration rate among the three different types of PS.

RESULTS

Eight weeks after the bile exposure in the bile flow phantom model, 80 PS were retrieved and analyzed. The straight PS showed less biofilm formation and luminal narrowing than other types of PS (p < 0.05). Forty-nine PS were inserted into the dilated bile ducts of 10 swine models, and 39 PS were successfully retrieved 8 weeks later. The stent migration occurred less frequently in the double-pigtail PS and the screw-shaped PS than it did in the straight PS (11.1, 10, and 27.3%, respectively). However, there was no statistical difference in stent patency among the different shapes.

CONCLUSIONS

Stent patency may not be significantly different depending on the shape of PS for 8 weeks. The screw-shaped PS showed similar patency and migration rate to the double-pigtail PS. These results may help guiding future PS development and clinical decisions.

Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for cholelithiasis 2016

Cholelithiasis is one of the commonest diseases in gastroenterology. Remarkable improvements in therapeutic modalities for cholelithiasis and its complications are evident. The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology has revised the evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for cholelithiasis. Forty-three clinical questions, for four categories-epidemiology and pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatments, and prognosis and complications-were selected, and a literature search was performed for the clinical questions with use of the MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Igaku Chuo Zasshi databases for the period between 1983 and June 2012. The guidelines were developed with use of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system. This article preferentially describes the clinical management of cholelithiasis and its complications. Following description of the diagnosis performed stepwise through imaging modalities, treatments of cholecystolithiasis, choledocholithiasis, and hepatolithiasis are introduced along with a flowchart. Since there have been remarkable improvements in endoscopic treatments and surgical techniques, the guidelines ensure flexibility in choices according to the actual clinical environment. The revised clinical practice guidelines are appropriate for use by clinicians in their daily practice.

A review of treatment options for bile duct stones

Approximately 10-15% of bile duct stones cannot be treated using conventional stone removal techniques. For difficult common bile duct stones (CBDS), various endoscopic techniques have been developed. This review covers technical tips and endoscopic treatments including Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), particularly under Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guidance. Areas covered: Literatures about endoscopic treatment for bile duct stone were searched in Pub Med. As novel methods, EUS-guided approaches have also been reported, although long-term results and prospective evaluation are not yet sufficient. Large stones may need fragmentation prior to removal, to prevent stone impaction. To perform fragmentation, mechanical lithotripsy, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or laser lithotripsy techniques are available. Expert commentary: Despite the fact that most bile duct stones can be treated using endoscopic techniques, endoscopists should remind to be able to select the temporary biliary stenting or percutaneous transhepatic cholangiodrainage as an option.

How Does Aging Affect Presentation and Management of Biliary Stones?

Common bile duct (CBD) stones are common in elderly adults, but the effect of aging on the presentation of CBD stones remains to be evaluated. Recent studies have demonstrated that the clinical presentation of CBD stones may vary with age. Younger adults may present with classical biliary colic symptoms, whereas elderly adults may have no unapparent clinical features. Younger adults with CBD stones were significantly more likely to have abnormal liver function tests than those without. The sensitivity and accuracy of transabdominal ultrasound scans in screening for CBD stones increases with age. Antibiotic agents should be promptly administered to individuals with CBD stones complicated by cholangitis, but the effects of pharmacotherapy on renal function should be considered in elderly adults. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is considered to be first-line treatment for CBD stones, and endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy (EST) or endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (EPBD) along with ERCP is an adequate biliary drainage method in individuals with CBD stones. EPBD has a lower bleeding risk but higher post-ERCP risk of pancreatitis than EST. Longer-duration (>1 minute) EPBD may be preferred over EST because it is associated with a comparable risk of pancreatitis but a lower rate of overall complications, although recurrent cholangitis or unfavorable outcomes will increase during CBD dilation or in the presence of residual CBD stones.

Effects of Rowachol on prevention of postcholecystectomy pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: prospective multicenter randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Postcholecystectomy pain (PCP) is characterized by abdominal pain after cholecystectomy. However, prevention of PCP is not well known yet. The purpose of this study was to determine whether Rowachol might be useful in preventing PCP.

METHODS

Between May 2013 and January 2014, a total of 138 patients with gallbladder disease who were scheduled to undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly assigned to orally receive 100 mg Rowachol or placebo three times daily for 3 months after surgery. Abdominal pain was assessed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 questionnaire.

RESULTS

Incidence of PCP in the placebo group (n = 9, 14.3%) was higher than that in the Rowachol group (n = 3, 4.7%) with statistically marginal significance (P = 0.08). Risk factor analysis implicated PCP with increased difficulty in performing LC, more frequent pathology with acute cholecystitis, and absence of postoperative Rowachol treatment. Multivariate analysis revealed that greater difficulty of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (HR = 5.78, 95% CI 1.36-24.40, P < 0.05), and absence of postoperative Rowachol treatment (HR = 2.54, 95% CI 1.10-10.39, P < 0.05) were independent risk factors for development of PCP.

CONCLUSION

Rowachol might be beneficial for prevention of PCP after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Impact of biliary stent-related events in patients diagnosed with advanced pancreatobiliary tumours receiving palliative chemotherapy

AIM: To determine the impact (morbidity/mortality) of biliary stent-related events (SRE) (cholangitis or stent obstruction) in chemotherapy-treated pancreatico-biliary patients.

METHODS: All consecutive patients with advanced pancreatobiliary cancer and a biliary stent in-situ prior to starting palliative chemotherapy were identified retrospectively from local electronic case-note records (Jan 13 to Jan 15). The primary end-point was SRE rate and the time-to-SRE (defined as time from first stenting before chemotherapy to date of SRE). Progression-free survival and overall survival were measured from the time of starting chemotherapy. Kaplan-Meier, Cox and Fine-Gray regression (univariate and multivariable) analyses were employed, as appropriate. For the analysis of time-to-SRE, death was considered as a competing event.

RESULTS: Ninety-six out of 693 screened patients were eligible; 89% had a metal stent (the remainder were plastic). The median time of follow-up was 9.6 mo (range 2.2 to 26.4). Forty-one patients (43%) developed a SRE during follow-up [cholangitis (39%), stent obstruction (29%), both (32%)]. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the SRE group and no-SRE groups. Recorded SRE-consequences were: none (37%), chemotherapy delay (24%), discontinuation (17%) and death (22%). The median time-to-SRE was 4.4 mo (95%CI: 3.6-5.5). Patients with severe comorbidities (P < 0.001) and patients with ≥ 2 baseline stents/biliary procedures [HR = 2.3 (95%CI: 1.2-4.44), P = 0.010] had a shorter time-to-SRE on multivariable analysis. Stage was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (P = 0.029) in the multivariable analysis adjusted for primary tumour site, performance status and development of SRE (SRE group vs no-SRE group).

CONCLUSION: SREs are common and impact on patient’s morbidity. Our results highlight the need for prospective studies exploring the role of prophylactic strategies to prevent/delay SREs.

Endoscopic biliary stenting in irretrievable common bile duct stones: stent exchange or expectant management-tertiary-centre experience and systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Conventional endoscopic duct clearance may not be possible in up to 10%-15% of common bile duct stones (CBDS). Sphincterotomy and biliary drainage by endoprosthesis have for many years been the mainstay of management in irretrievable stones. Recent years have seen the advent of sphincteroplasty or cholangioscopically-guided electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL) permitting duct clearance in majority of cases. However, when bile duct clearance is not possible, options include long-term stenting followed by elective stent exchange (ESE) 6-12 monthly or permanent stent insertion (PSI) in selected cases, but it is not clear which management strategy among ESE and PSI is preferable.

METHODS AND AIMS

A retrospective review of all patients in Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust who underwent plastic stent insertion for biliary access for difficult CBDS from January 2006 to December 2011 was undertaken. Adult patients with irretrievable CBDS who had plastic stent insertions throughout the follow-up period were included. Patients who underwent PSI and ESE annually were retrospectively reviewed to determine the long-term outcomes. A detailed systematic review was also performed, examining the outcomes of CBDS managed with stents.

RESULTS

During the study period, 674 patients underwent 1769 biliary-stent-related procedures; of which, 246 patients met our inclusion criteria. 201 patients had subsequent duct clearance. 45 patients were, therefore, included in the final analysis, 28 of whom underwent annual ESEs and 17 PSIs. Patients in the PSI group had higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) scores compared with the ESE group. In the PSI group, 9/17 patients presented acutely with blocked stents, 5 of whom presented within 12 months. 2/9 patients were severely ill and died within a fortnight following the repeat endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). In the ESE group, 4/28 patients had duct clearance in subsequent ERCPs, 1/28 patient presented with a blocked stent, and no biliary-related deaths were observed. The mean numbers of ERCPs performed were 0.52 and 1.95 in the PSI and ESE groups, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Over 50% of patients treated with long-term stenting re-presented acutely with stent blockage, though many of these were before 12 months, meaning planned stent exchange would not have affected the outcome. Duct clearance using all possible modalities is the preferred option, but where not possible, management with biliary stenting either with elective exchange or permanent stenting remains a possibility for carefully selected patients, though maybe best suited to those with limited life expectancy.

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography for the Management of Common Bile Duct Stones and Gallstone Pancreatitis

Biliary disease is a common cause of acute pancreatitis. Risk stratification for persistent pancreatobiliary obstruction is important for selecting a treatment approach. Most common bile duct stones are extracted with standard endoscopic techniques. However, prior foregut surgery, stones with extreme morphologic attributes, and at difficult positions within the biliary system are technically challenging and predict a need for advanced biliary endoscopic techniques. Surgical common bile duct exploration at the time of cholecystectomy is appropriate in centers with experience. We outline the options and approach for the clinician to successfully identify and manage patients with symptomatic choledocholithiasis with or without biliary pancreatitis.

Factors significantly contributing to a failed conventional endoscopic stone clearance in patients with "difficult" choledecholithiasis: a single-center experience

The objective of this study is to retrospectively evaluate factors significantly contributing to a failed stone extraction (SE) in patients with difficult to extract bile duct stones (BDS). Patients and Methods. During a 10-year period 1390 patients with BDS underwent successfully endoscopic sphincterotomy. Endoscopic SE was graded as easy; relatively easy; difficult; and failed. Difficult SE was encountered in 221 patients while failed SE was encountered in 205. A retrospective analysis of the criteria governing the difficulty of endoscopic SE following the index endoscopic intervention was performed to evaluate their significance in determining failure of complete SE among patients with difficult to extract bile duct stones. Results. Age ≥ 85 years, periampullary diverticula, multiple CBD stones (>4), and diameter of CBD stones (≥15 mm) were all significant contributing factors to a failed SE in univariate statistical tests. In the definitive multivariate analysis age, multiple stones and diameter of stones were found to be the significant, independent contributors. Conclusion. Failed conventional endoscopic stone clearance in patients with difficult to extract BDS is more likely to occur in overage patients, in patients with multiple CBD stones >4, and in patients with CBD stone(s) diameter ≥15 mm.

Advances in the endoscopic management of common bile duct stones

Extraction of common bile duct stones by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography generally involves biliary sphincterotomy, endoscopic papillary balloon dilation or a combination of both. Endoscopic papillary large-balloon dilation after sphincterotomy has increased the safety of large stone extraction. Cholangioscopically directed electrohydraulic and laser lithotripsy using single-operator mother-daughter systems or direct peroral cholangioscopy using ultraslim endoscopes are increasingly utilized for the management of refractory stones. In this Review, we focus on advances in endoscopic approaches and techniques, with a special emphasis on management strategies for 'difficult' common bile duct stones.

Adverse events in older patients undergoing ERCP: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Biliary and pancreatic diseases are common in the elderly; however, few studies have addressed the occurrence of adverse events in elderly patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Our objective was to determine the incidence rates of specific adverse events in this group and calculate incidence rate ratios (IRRs) for selected comparison groups.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Bibliographical searches were conducted in Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane library databases. The studies included documented the incidence of adverse events (perforation, pancreatitis, bleeding, cholangitis, cardiopulmonary adverse events, mortality) in patients aged ≥ 65 who underwent ERCP. Pooled incidence rates were calculated for each reported adverse event and IRRs were determined for available comparison groups. A parallel analysis was performed in patients aged ≥ 80 and ≥ 90.

RESULTS

Our literature search yielded 7429 articles, of which 69 studies met our inclusion criteria. Pooled incidence rates for adverse events (per 1000 ERCPs) in patients aged ≥ 65 were as follows: perforation 3.8 (95 %CI 1.8 - 7.0), pancreatitis 13.1 (95 %CI 11.0 - 15.5), bleeding 7.7 (95 %CI 5.7 - 10.1), cholangitis 16.1 (95 %CI 11.7 - 21.7), cardiopulmonary events 3.7 (95 %CI 1.5 - 7.6), and death 7.1 (95 %CI 5.2 - 9.4). Patients ≥ 65 had lower rates of pancreatitis (IRR 0.3, 95 %CI 0.3 - 0.4) compared with younger patients. Octogenarians had higher rates of death (IRR 2.4, 95 %CI 1.3 - 4.5) compared with younger patients, whereas nonagenarians had increased rates of bleeding (IRR 2.4, 95 %CI 1.1 - 5.2), cardiopulmonary events (IRR 3.7, 95 %CI 1.0 - 13.9), and death (IRR 3.8, 95 %CI 1.0 - 14.4). Conclusions ERCP appears to be safe in elderly patients, except in the very elderly who are at higher risk of some adverse events. These data on adverse event rates can help to inform clinical decision-making, the consent process, and comparative effectiveness analyses.

The effect of a novel drug-eluting plastic stent on biliary stone dissolution in an ex vivo bile perfusion model

BACKGROUND

Temporary plastic stent insertion has been considered a safe and effective bridge therapy for difficult common bile duct (CBD) stones. Infusing chemicals to directly dissolve stones through the bile duct might also be effective. However, there are no studies on the efficacy of the combination of these 2 approaches.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy of a novel ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and sodium cholate-eluting plastic stent on biliary stones.

DESIGN

Ex vivo model by using different doses of active ingredient.

SETTING AND INTERVENTIONS

An ex vivo bile duct model perfused with porcine bile was created. Stents coated with degradable membranes containing various concentrations of EDTA and sodium cholate were placed in the model with CBD stones.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

The change in the weight of stents and stones was measured every week during perfusion until the coated membranes were completely biodegraded.

RESULTS

The time that the stents required to be fully degraded and the efficiency of stone dissolution were positively correlated with the percentage of EDTA and sodium cholate in the stent membrane. However, the 50% EDTA and sodium cholate stents achieved the greatest percentage of stone weight loss when the drugs were completely released.

LIMITATIONS

Ex vivo study.

CONCLUSIONS

The EDTA and sodium cholate-eluting plastic stent effectively dissolved CBD stones and has prospect in the therapy for patients with difficult CBD stones.

Recurrent common bile duct stones composed of ursodeoxycholic acid: a report of four cases

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is often used to treat cholesterol gallstones. UDCA makes cholesterol stones soluble, thereby improving biliary emptying. Conversely, however, UDCA can also form stones via an unknown mechanism, as shown in a few previous reports of cholangitis caused by the formation of UDCA stones in the common bile duct (CBD). We herein report four cases of recurrent cholangitis resulting from UDCA stones. The withdrawal of UDCA administration was highly effective in these patients. The details of these four cases suggest that clinicians must rethink the indications for UDCA treatment in cases in which cholangitis caused by CBD stones frequently recurs over a short period of time.

Recent advances in endoscopic management of difficult bile duct stones

Endoscopic treatment is now recognized worldwide as the first-line treatment for bile duct stones. Endoscopic sphincterotomy combined with basket and/or balloon catheter is generally carried out for stone extraction. However, some stones are refractory to treatment under certain circumstances, necessitating additional/other therapeutic modalities. Large bile duct stones are typically treated by mechanical lithotripsy. However, if this fails, laser or electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL) is carried out under the guidance of conventional mother-baby cholangioscopy. More recently, direct cholangioscopy using an ultrathin gastroscope and the newly developed single-use cholangioscope system - the SpyGlass direct visualization system - are also used. In addition, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy has also been used for stone fragmentation. Such fragmentation techniques are effective in cases with impacted stones, including Mirizzi syndrome. Most recently, endoscopic papillary large balloon dilationhas been introduced as an easy and effective technique for treating large and multiple stones. In cases of altered anatomy, it is often difficult to reach the papilla; in such cases, a percutaneous transhepatic approach, such as EHL or laser lithotripsy under percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopy, can be a treatment option. Moreover, enteroscopy has recently been used to reach the papilla. Furthermore, an endoscopic ultrasound-guided procedure has been attempted most recently. In elderly patients and those with very poor general condition, biliary stenting only is sometimes carried out with or without giving subsequent dissolution agents.

Endoscopic management of bile duct stones: residual bile duct stones after surgery, cholangitis, and "difficult stones"

Endoscopic treatment has become, according to the latest recommendations, the standard treatment for common bile duct stones (CBDS), although in certain situations, surgical clearance of the common duct at the time of laparoscopic cholecystectomy is still considered a possible alternative. The purpose of this article is not to compare endoscopic with surgical treatment of CBDS, but to describe the various techniques of endoscopic treatment, detailing their preferential indications and the various treatment options that must sometimes be considered when faced with "difficult calculi" of the CBD. The different techniques of lithotripsy and the role of biliary drainage with plastic or metallic stents will be detailed as well as papillary balloon dilatation and particularly the technique of sphincterotomy with macrodilatation of the sphincter of Oddi (SMSO), a recently described approach that has changed the strategy for endoscopic management of CBDS. Finally, the overall strategy for endoscopic management of CBDS, with description of different techniques, will be exposed.

Genetics and treatment of bile duct stones: new approaches

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The global burden of gallstones is increasing. Although the gallbladder is the most common site for gallstone formation, 10-25% of patients display concurrent gallbladder and bile duct stones. Secondary stones are differentiated from primary stones that develop de novo in the biliary tree. Overall, the natural history of bile duct stones is less well defined and their diagnosis and treatment are more complex as compared to gallbladder stones.

RECENT FINDINGS

Elevated liver function tests are not always reflective of bile duct stones, and noninvasive diagnosis by endoscopic ultrasound or MRI should be pursued in ambiguous cases. For treatment, recent studies report endoscopic dilation to result in similar clearance but lower complication and recurrence rates as with sphincterotomy. Pharmacological adjuvants such as ursodeoxycholic acid with sphincterotomy and stenting have been suggested for elderly patients. Indication and timing of cholecystectcomy after endoscopic treatment of bile duct stones is critical, and early cholecystectomy within 3-7 days prevents recurrent biliary events.

SUMMARY

In this review we address the pathophysiology of bile duct stones and present the latest developments in the diagnosis and treatment of this challenging condition, with a consideration of stone recurrence.

Modern management of common bile duct stones

It is imperative for gastroenterologists to understand the different formations of bile duct stones and the various medical treatments available. To minimize the complications of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), it is critical to appropriately assess the risk of bile duct stones before intervention. Biliary endoscopists should be comfortable with the basic techniques of stone removal, including sphincterotomy, mechanical lithotripsy, and stent placement. It is important to be aware of advanced options, including laser and electrohydraulic stone fragmentation, and papillary dilatation for problematic cases. The timing and need for ERCP in those who require a cholecystectomy is also a consideration.

Comment on ESGE clinical guideline for biliary stenting

The European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) guidelines for biliary stenting published in 2012 are summarised and discussed.

Endoscopic biliary stenting for irretrievable common bile duct stones: Indications, advantages, disadvantages, and follow-up results

BACKGROUND

The advantages of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) over open surgery have made it the predominant method of treating patients with choledocholithiasis. After sphincterotomy, however, 10%-15% of common bile duct (CBD) stones cannot be removed with a basket or balloon. Methods for managing "irretrievable stones" include surgery; mechanical, intraductal shock wave, and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy; chemical dissolution; and biliary stenting. Endoscopic biliary stent insertion, which is frequently used in specific situations, has both advantages and disadvantages. To maximize the advantages and minimize the complications of biliary endoprosthesis, it is important to recognize its proper indications and to apply the technique in proper situations.

DATA SOURCES

We reviewed all publications cited in Pubmed and published through July 2011 on biliary endoprosthesis in patients with irretrievable CBD stones. We analyzed the indications, advantages, disadvantages, and long-term follow-up results of this technique.

RESULTS

Despite the occurrence of related complications, such as cholangitis, endoscopic placement of an endoprosthesis may reduce stone size, allowing later clearance of unextractable stones. Permanent biliary stenting may be a definitive treatment in selected elderly patients who are poor candidates for surgery.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic biliary stenting remains a simple and safe method for patients with stones difficult to manage by conventional endoscopic methods and those patients unfit for surgery or at high surgical risks.

Endoscopic extraction of large common bile duct stones: A review article

Since therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography replaced surgery as the first approach in cases of choledocolithiasis, a plethora of endoscopic techniques and devices appeared in order to facilitate rapid, safe and effective bile duct stones extraction. Nowadays, endoscopic sphincterotomy combined with balloon catheters and/or baskets is the routine endoscopic technique for stone extraction in the great majority of patients. Large common bile duct stones are treated conventionally with mechanical lithotripsy, while the most serious complication of the procedure is “basket and stone impaction” that is predominately resolved surgically. In cases of difficult, impacted, multiple or intrahepatic stones, more sophisticated procedures have been used. Electrohydraulic lithotripsy and laser lithotripsy are performed using conventional mother-baby scope systems, ultra-thin cholangioscopes, thin endoscopes and ultimately using the novel single use, single operator SpyGlass Direct Visualization System, in order to deliver intracorporeal shock wave energy to fragment the targeted stone, with very good outcomes. Recently, large balloon dilation after endoscopic sphincterotomy confirmed its effectiveness in the extraction of large stones in a plethora of trials. When compared with mechanical lithotripsy or with balloon dilation alone, it proved to be superior. Moreover, dilation is an ideal alternative in cases of altered anatomy where access to the papilla is problematic. Endoscopic sphincterotomy followed by large balloon dilation represents the onset of a new era in large bile duct stone extraction and the management of “impaction” because it seems that is an effective, inexpensive, less traumatic, safe and easy method that does not require sophisticated apparatus and can be performed widely by skillful endoscopists. When complete extraction of large stones is unsuccessful, the drainage of the common bile duct is mandatory either for bridging to the final therapy or as a curative therapy for very elderly patients with short life expectancy. Placing of more than one plastic endoprostheses is better while the administration of Ursodiol is ineffective. The great majority of patients with large stones can be treated endoscopically. In cases of unsuccessful stone extraction using balloons, baskets, mechanical lithotripsy, electrohydraulic or laser lithotripsy and large balloon dilation, the patient should be referred for extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or a percutaneous approach and finally surgery.