Per-operative cholangiography and post-cholecystectomy biliary strictures

Abstract

A series of 78 patients with post-cholecystectomy biliary strictures have been examined. The majority (71%) did not have per-operative cholangiography at the time of initial cholecystectomy. Of the remainder, inadequate views were obtained in two patients and incomplete information was associated with subsequent common bile duct damage. In addition the study was performed after the common bile duct had been transected in a further two cases. The use of per-operative cholangiography in patients undergoing cholecystectomy is advocated, and the advantages and disadvantages of such an approach examined.