Clip as Nidus for Choledocholithiasis after Cholecystectomy-Literature Review

Foreign material in the biliary tree may serve as a nidus for stone formation and would usually present as choledocholithiasis with jaundice or cholangitis. Overall it is a rare occurrence, but there are many anecdotal reports of ingested matter or surgical material such as suture or clips causing biliary stones. Especially interesting are the cases in which there is migration of a metallic clip used in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Cholecystectomy is such a common operation that although the phenomenon is rare, it is important because it is preventable, and as such a review of the topic seems worthwhile.

The available literature was searched using the EMBASE and Ovid databases and reviewed. The various devices and sutures used to occlude the cystic duct in laparoscopic cholecystectomy are discussed with reference to their safety.

We found that the harmonic scalpel is a reasonable alternative with minimal complications but is however limited by cost. Electrosurgical vessel-sealing, ultrasonic shears, absorbable sutures such as endoloops (PDS), and polymer clips as well absorbable magnesium-calcium-zinc alloy clip are discussed.