Laparoscopic choledochoduodenostomy as a reliable rescue procedure for complicated bile duct stones

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with stone extraction is generally accepted as first line management for common bile duct (CBD) stones. CBD exploration, either by open or laparoscopic approach nowadays, is usually reserved for ERCP failures, complicated stone locations, along with altered anatomical situations. The aim of this study was to highlight the increasing role of laparoscopic choledochoduodenostomy which is not only a reliable but also as a rescue procedure for those failed ERCP cases due to complicated bile duct stones.

It is a retrospective review of the database, from a tertiary care teaching institution from India, from Jan 2012 up to December 2016.

Out of total 30 patients who underwent laparoscopic choledochoduodenostomy, 28 had failed ERC stone clearance while two patients were directly offered drainage in view of unfavorable anatomy. The major reasons for failed ERC stone clearance were as follows-multiple large calculi (42.8%), recurrent stones (21.4%), and associated stricture (21.4%). Mean operating time was 130 (± 27) minutes with mean blood loss of 60 (± 19) ml. Stone extraction was successful, primarily by milking in 13 (43.33%) patients, rest required augmentation by Dormia basket/balloon. Two patients (6.66%) developed controlled bile leak which resolved with conservative treatment. The median length of hospital stay was 5 days (IQR 3-9). Mean duration of follow-up was 17 (± 3.2) months.

Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration with choledochoduodenostomy has been shown to be a safe, reliable, and efficient method for treating complex CBDS, especially after failed ERCP procedures.