Choledochoduodenostomy for calculous biliary tract disease

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Procedures
• Biliary Tract Surgery

Background:

• Choledocholithiasis (common bile duct stones) management involves surgical procedures after duct opening.
• Choledochoduodenostomy is a debated technique, particularly in elderly patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of choledochoduodenostomy in elderly patients with choledocholithiasis.

Main Methods:

• A consecutive series of 77 elderly patients (mean age 75 years) underwent choledochoduodenostomy.
• Data collected included hospital mortality, long-term follow-up, and survival rates.

Main Results:

• Hospital mortality was 2.6% (2 deaths).
• Long-term follow-up (average 6.7 years) showed 50 patients alive and well.
• Overall survival was comparable to the age- and sex-matched French population, including postoperative deaths.

Conclusions:

• Choledochoduodenostomy is a safe and effective procedure for elderly patients with choledocholithiasis.
• The technique allows for anastomoses in ducts of various sizes.
• Long-term survival is not adversely affected compared to the general population.