A simple technique for the operative assessment of retained stones in the common bile duct

This technique is useful in avoiding the operative delays associated with removal, reinsertion and resuturing of T tubes following the identification of retained common stones at exploration of the common bile duct. This technique may have further application if T-tube drainage of the common bile duct is not performed following exploration of the common bile duct. At the conclusion of the exploration, the Foley catheters are inserted, and cholangiograms are obtained. If no stones are identified, the Foley catheter can be removed and the common bile ducts closed primarily. Utilization of this technique when drainage of the common bile duct with T tubes is not performed may significantly reduce the incidence of missed retained stones of the common bile duct resulting from failure to obtain the T-tube cholangiogram.