[Obstructive jaundice caused by residual and/or recurrent choledochal lithiasis: endoscopic and surgical treatment]

Results of surgical and endoscopic treatment in 79 patients (58 females and 21 males, age 40-89, mean 62), affected with jaundice, due to secondary choledochal lithiasis, are reported. Thirty-four patients (43%) underwent surgical operation: choledochotomy and T-tube 12, choledocho-jejunostomy 4, choledochoduodenostomy 3, papillosphincteroplasty 15. In 45 patients (57%) EST has been performed. Comparison of results has been obtained after 30 days and after 3-105 months (mean 49). Optimal results have been achieved in 94.9% of patients: 100% after surgery and 94.1% after EST. Morbidity and mortality outcomes in patients who underwent EST (11.1% and 0% after 30 days respectively, 8.1% and 8.1% after several months) are better compared to those ones after surgical treatment (17.6% and 5.8% after 30 days, 20% and 16% after several months). We conclude that EST is nowadays the therapy of choice in patients with jaundice due to choledochal lithiasis, either relapsing or residual.