BILIARY ENDOPROSTHESES FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF RETAINED COMMON BILE-DUCT STONES

Abstract

Stone retention after duodenoscopic sphincterotomy may occur despite an adequate and well-performed sphincterotomy. Factors contributing to stone retention in 26 patients were identified. In 22 of these patients, the stones were effectively managed with a biliary endoprosthesis in a manner which traps the stone proximally and maintains patency of the biliary tree. No complications were noted with this form of management for periods ranging from 3-36 mo. When circumstances preclude removal of bile duct stones after duodenoscopic sphincterotomy, a biliary endoprosthesis offers a safe, effective means of stone management.