title: ERCP following laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a safe and effective way to manage CBD stones and complications.
abstract: The efficacy of ERCP in detecting and treating post-laparoscopic cholecystectomy problems was examined in a series of consecutive patients undergoing directed examination of the biliary tree over a two-year period. Three major diagnostic groups were identified: leaks and bile duct injuries (n = 9), retained common bile duct stones (n = 18), and post-cholecystectomy pain (n = 13). These diagnostic groups differed in degree of abnormal bilirubin (p = .004) and time between surgery and ERCP (p = .0005). Diagnosis of a post-operative complication was successful in 92% of attempted cases. Therapy was successful in 92% of attempted cases. Three patients developed mild pancreatitis as a result of ERCP. This series underscores the efficacy of a multi-disciplinary approach to problems which occur after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
authors.affiliation: Division of Gastroenterology, University of Tennessee, Chattanooga, USA.
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Schmitt
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Baillie
authors.forename: P B
authors.initials: PB
authors.lastname: Cotton
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001652:Bile Ducts / Q000293:injuries; D002760:Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde / Q000009:adverse effects; D017081:Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D042882:Gallstones / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010149:Postoperative Pain; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012189:Retrospective Studies