Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration Use of a Rigid Ureteroscope: A Single Institute Experience

Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) is used to treat choledocholithiasis. Flexible choledochoscopy is usually performed; however, this instrument is fragile and liable to breakage.

Data were collected and reviewed retrospectively from a prospectively maintained database. All cases of attempted LCBDE with the rigid ureteroscope at the institution since January 2014 were included. Demographic characteristics, preoperative attempted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), size of the bile duct, findings at laparoscopy, use of drain or T-tube, conversions, and morbidity or mortality were documented.

A total of 37 patients were identified. The median age was 51 years (32-71). The male to female ratio was 1:5. Twenty-eight patients had failed ductal clearance at ERCP (75.7%). The mean common bile duct (CBD) diameter was 11.4 mm (10-13.5). There were five conversions. Cirrhosis in 2 patients, bleeding in 1 patient, impacted stone in 1, and equipment failure in 1. T-tubes were placed in 5% of cases. N = 8 (21.6%) of the patients had a Mirizzi syndrome. Average hospital stay was 4 days (3-7). Two patients had complications postoperatively-bleeding and collections.

LCBDE using the rigid ureteroscope is feasible. It can be performed with acceptable morbidity. Use of the rigid ureteroscope represents a good alternative to the flexible choledochoscope with high duct clearance rates. One disadvantage is cirrhosis where the scope may not be negotiated into the CBD due to a stiff liver. It is a viable option when preoperative ERCP has failed to clear the CBD.