[Long-term evolution of a T-tube in the common bile duct]

We present the case of an elderly and frail woman, admitted for obstructive jaundice 9 years after cholecystectomy, lithotomy and T-tube drainage. The presence of a T-tube remnant in the common bile duct was suggested by imaging techniques, along with a megacholedocus. Because of the risks associated with advanced biliary cirrhosis, the endoscopic retrieval and lithotripsy was the first therapeutical attempt but failed. Lithotomy and cholangio-jejunostomy by open surgery were followed by a surprising favourable course.