title: Non-operative treatment of retained bile duct calculi in patients with an indwelling T tube.
abstract: The results of combined instrumental and chemical treatment of retained bile duct calculi in 18 patients with an indwelling T tube are reported. The instrumental extraction of stones was carried out through the T tube channel using a modified Dormia apparatus. The chemical method involved continuous infusion through the T tube of heparin in saline alternating with sodium cholate. The treatment was successful in 16 of 18 patients with from 1 to 14 residual stones. The instrumental extraction of stones is recommended as the treatment of choice 5--6 weeks after choledochotomy in patients with residual stones and an indwelling T tube. Subsequent chemical treatment is recommended if remnants of stones are left in the bile duct after instrumental treatment.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002793:Cholic Acids / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D042882:Gallstones / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy*; D006493:Heparin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007440:Intubation; D008297:Male; D008722:Methods; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D012965:Sodium Chloride / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D002793:Cholic Acids; D012965:Sodium Chloride; D006493:Heparin