[Surgical complications of endoscopic sphincterotomy]

Between June 1988 and June 1990, 267 endoscopic sphincterotomies were attempted for various indications. In 204 patients (74%) the indication was choledocholithiasis of which 109 with an intact gallbladder. Of the 267 patients, 22 (8.2%) developed complications and 4 died (1.4%). Six required urgent surgery 2.24% of the entire series and 0.3% of all emergency surgery done in that period in our department. Although most complications can be treated medically, about one fourth require emergency surgery. A medico-surgical team is needed to manage this type of patient.