Gallstone dissolution using mono-octanoin infusion through an endoscopically placed nasobiliary catheter

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopic procedures
• Biliary stone management

Background:

• Endoscopic sphincterotomy is a common treatment for common bile duct stones.
• Large gallstones can be difficult to extract after endoscopic sphincterotomy, posing a clinical challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of mono-octanoin infusion for dissolving large or difficult-to-extract common bile duct stones.
• To assess the success rate of mono-octanoin in facilitating stone removal post-endoscopic sphincterotomy.

Main Methods:

• A constant infusion of mono-octanoin was administered via a nasobiliary catheter in nine patients with large common bile duct stones.
• Patients had undergone successful endoscopic sphincterotomy but faced extraction difficulties.

Main Results:

• Mono-octanoin infusion led to partial or complete dissolution of stones in 74% of patients.
• In the remaining 36% of patients, stones were softened, allowing for easier extraction by crushing.

Conclusions:

• Constant infusion of mono-octanoin is a viable method for managing large common bile duct stones that are difficult to extract after endoscopic sphincterotomy.
• This technique offers a high success rate in either dissolving or softening stones, thereby aiding in their removal and improving patient outcomes.