Clinical decision analysis as a means of technology assessment. The effectiveness of intraoperative cholangiography

Three strategies for timely detection of common duct stones are examined by decision analysis: the use of intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) in ALL, NONE, or in SOME of the cases that are selected by the estimated probability of a common duct stone. Selective use of IOC is the most cost-effective option and offers a slightly lower mortality risk.