title: Early and late results of laparoscopic choledochotomy without biliary drainage.
abstract: On account of dissatisfaction with the two-staged approach to stones in the common bile duct, and the risks associated with endoscopic papillotomy, one-stage laparoscopic duct exploration was commenced. The initial experienced with 20 cases is presented. In 13 cases the transcystic approach to the main duct was not successful, so a choledochotomy was performed, and closed without biliary drainage. The postoperative course was similar to laparoscopic cholecystectomy and was uncomplicated in all patients. The follow-up examination of 12 patients demonstrated a mild stenosis of the main duct in our first case; however, this resolved spontaneously within six months. When indicated, the laparoscopic "ideal" choledochotomy with fibroscopic exploration gives very good early and long term results.
authors.affiliation: First Surgical Department, Fatebenefratelli and Oftalmico Hospital, Milan, Italy.
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Croce
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Azzola
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Russo
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Golia
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Pompa
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Ubezio
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Dal Cin
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002758:Cholangiography; D017081:Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic / Q000379:methods; D002769:Cholelithiasis / Q000601:surgery; D003135:Common Bile Duct / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D003549:Cystic Duct / Q000601:surgery; D004322:Drainage; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D042882:Gallstones / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged