Common bile duct stones detected after cholecystectomy: advancement into the duodenum via the percutaneous route

To report our experience in the use of percutaneous extraction of common bile duct stones detected in the post-cholecystectomy period.

Forty-two patients in whom endoscopic cannulation and/or sphincterotomy had failed or could not be done due to several reasons underwent balloon dilatation of the ampulla of Vater and subsequent advancement of the stones via the percutaneous transhepatic route or T-tube tract.

The procedure was successful in 42 cases. In three patients, stones were crushed in the common bile duct and pushed as fragments into the duodenum. In all cases transient adverse effects were observed. There were no major complications. All cases were checked with ultrasonography for 6 months after the procedure.

Percutaneous extraction of common bile duct stones is an effective method of treatment with a high success rate, low complication rate and shorter hospital stay. It may serve as an alternative method in cases where endoscopic removal of stones fails.