Endoscopic removal of large common bile duct stones in recurrent pyogenic cholangitis

Gastrointest Endosc. 1988 May-Jun;34(3):238-41. doi: 10.1016/s0016-5107(88)71320-6.

Abstract

It is not uncommon to find large stones obstructing the bile duct in patients with recurrent pyogenic cholangitis. In a series of 291 patients with cholangitis, 32 patients had stones more than 2 cm in diameter. Endoscopic extraction using a combination of large baskets, 1% EDTA flushing, and manual or mechanical lithotripsy allowed the common bile duct to be cleared in 50% of patients. Lack of space in the common bile duct to open the retrieval basket because of stone impaction was the major reason for failure.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde*
  • Cholangitis / complications*
  • Edetic Acid / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Gallstones / complications
  • Gallstones / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Lithotripsy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Recurrence
  • Sphincterotomy, Transduodenal

Substances

  • Edetic Acid