A new technique for the rapid dissolution of retained ductal gallstones with monoctanoin in T-tube patients.
Retained gallstones in the biliary ducts have been therapeutically managed with monoctanoin (Moctanin; Ethitek Pharmaceuticals Company, Skokie, IL) since Food and Drug Administration approval in 1985. The clinical usefulness of monoctanoin therapy has previously been regarded by some investigators as limited because of the length of time required to achieve complete dissolution (2 to 10 days) and less than optimal results (50% to 86% efficacy). Here, the authors describe a safe technique for the rapid dissolution of retained stones that they have used successfully in four patients. This technique eliminates the need for pressure monitoring in the T-tube patient and is suitable for short-stay hospitalization. Representative case histories are presented.
Janssen
D
D
Department of Surgery, Saginaw Cooperative Hospitals, Michigan.
Bommarito
A
A
Lathrop
J
J
D000328:Adult; D002210:Caprylates; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling; D001651:Cholestasis, Extrahepatic / Q000188:drug therapy; D003137:Common Bile Duct Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D042882:Gallstones / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005989:Glycerides / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D007440:Intubation / Q000295:instrumentation; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012995:Solubility; D013997:Time Factors
D002210:Caprylates; D005989:Glycerides; C025343:monooctanoin