Assessment of Common Bile Duct Using Laparoscopic Ultrasound During Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Laparoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Transcystic Approach for the Treatment of Common Bile Duct Stones

Background: The treatment of choledocholithiasis with nondilated common bile duct (CBD) is a challenge for surgeons who often choose endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) staging surgery instead of simultaneous laparoscopic CBD exploration with LC because of the small CBD diameter. This study aims to introduce and assess the clinical applicability of a technique we developed to identify and extract CBD stones using laparoscopic ultrasound (LUS). Methods: We retrospectively reviewed surgical procedures and clinical data of 13 patients who underwent LC and CBD exploration using LUS between May 2022 and August 2023. The cystic duct was used for CBD stone removal. Results: Ten patients were successfully treated; 2 patients with residual stones were treated with ursodeoxycholic acid, whereas 1 patient required a microincision near the CBD and choledochoscopy because of stone incarceration in the duodenal papilla. The CBD diameter was 6 mm (5-9 mm). There were less than three CBD stones, with diameters of 2-6 mm; the median operative time was 105 minutes (range, 52-155 minutes). One patient developed postoperative cholangitis. The median postoperative hospital stay was 6 days (3-8 days). The stone clearance rate was 76.9%, and the CBD stone detection rate was 100%. No intraoperative complications, postoperative bile leakage, and mortality occurred. Conclusions: CBD exploration and transcystic stone extraction under LUS guidance are safe and effective approaches for patients with choledocholithiasis; strict control over surgical indications is necessary. This study could provide new strategies for effectively treating choledocholithiasis.

A Systematic Review of Laparoscopic Ultrasonography During Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

We aim to investigate the potential of laparoscopic ultrasonography (LUS) as a replacement for intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) in the context of laparoscopic cholecystectomy focusing on various aspects related to both techniques. We made our search through PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Scopus, with the use of the following search strategy: ("laparoscopic ultrasonography" OR LUS OR "laparoscopic US" OR "laparoscopic ultrasound") AND ("laparoscopic cholecystectomy" OR LC). We incorporated diverse studies that addressed our topic, offering data on the identification of biliary anatomy and variations, the utilization of laparoscopic ultrasound in cholecystitis, the detection of common bile duct stones, and the criteria utilized to assess the accuracy of LUS. A total of 1526 articles were screened and only 20 were finally included. This systematic review assessed LUS and IOC techniques in cholecystectomy. IOC showed higher failure rates due to common duct catheterization challenges, while LUS had lower failure rates, often linked to factors like steatosis. Cost-effectiveness comparisons favored LUS over IOC, potentially saving patients money. LUS procedures were quicker due to real-time imaging, while IOC required more time and personnel. Bile duct injuries were discussed, highlighting LUS limitations in atypical anatomies. LUS aided in diagnosing crucial conditions, emphasizing its relevance post surgery. Surgeon experience significantly impacted outcomes, regardless of the technique. A previous study discussed that LUS's learning curve was steeper than IOC's, with proficient LUS users adjusting practices and using IOC selectively. Highlighting LUS's benefits and limitations in cholecystectomy, we stress its value in complex anatomical situations. LUS confirms no common bile duct stones, avoiding cannulation. LUS and IOC equally detect common bile duct stones and visualize the biliary tree. LUS offers safety, speed, cost-effectiveness, and unlimited use. Despite the associated expenses and learning curve, the enduring benefits of using advanced probes in LUS imaging suggest that it could surpass traditional IOC. The validation of this potential advancement relies heavily on incorporating modern probe studies. Our study could contribute to the medical literature by evaluating their clinical validity, safety, cost-effectiveness, learning curve, patient outcomes, technological advancements, and potential impact on guidelines and recommendations for clinical professionals.

Transcystic Choledochoscopy Utilizing a Disposable Choledochoscope: How We Do It

BACKGROUND

Biliary disease is common occurrence and can make up a large portion of the practice of a general surgeon. Choledocholithasis is a common entity amongst those with biliary disease. Although modern trends favor endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and other imaging modalities for the diagnosis and management of choledocholithiasis, laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) is likely underutilized.

METHODS

A literature summary utilizing a PUBMED search was performed to provide an up-to-date account regarding the latest data on LCBDE. A video identifying and explaining the critical components of a LBCDE procedure is provided.

RESULTS

LCBDE is an underutilized procedure which offers equivalent clinical outcomes compared with ERCP along with a shorter length of stay and reduced costs. LCBDE is also noted to be an effective option for common bile duct stones in the setting of altered anatomy, such as a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

CONCLUSION

Although modern trends favor ERCP and other imaging modalities for the diagnosis and management of choledocholithiasis, LCBDE is likely underutilized by surgeons. LCBDE can provide many benefits to patients including avoidance of additional procedures, shorter length of stay, higher success rates, and less costs. Out video should act is a guide for those surgeons interested in implementation LCBDE in their practice.

Comparison of mean pain scores for the patients with sub hepatic drainage to those without it after elective uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Objective:

The sub hepatic drain is often placed after laparoscopic cholecystectomy is considered to affect post operative infection, pain and sub hepatic collections. The objective of this study was to compare the degree of postoperative pain in patients with routine drainage with those without it after elective, uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods:

This randomized control trial (RCT) was done over six months from 9^th June 2015 to 8^th December 2015 at Military Hospital Rawalpindi. Sample calculated with WHO calculator and consecutive non probability random sampling used to divide 170 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy in two groups. One group had routine sub hepatic drain and other didn’t. Degree of postoperative pain was assessed according to VISUAL ANALOGUE SCALE by duty doctor at 24 hours. Data was collected and analyzed applying chi square test and p value was <.05 considered statistically significant.

Results:

Our results demonstrated that intensity of post operative pain in routine drainage group is higher as compared to non drainage group after elective, uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Conclusion:

Routine placement of sub hepatic drain in elective uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy should be avoided to reduce post-operative pain.

Role of intra operative cholangiogram in current day practice

The role of Intra Operative Cholangiogram during laparoscopic cholecystectomy remains controversial. This review discusses the modalities used in the pre- and peri-operative assessment of Common Bile Duct. It also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of selective and routine IOC. In this review we explore the role of Intra Operative Cholangiogram in current day practice.