Laparoscopic antegrade sphincterotomy. A new technique for the management of complex choledocholithiasis

Abstract

Objective: Laparoscopic antegrade sphincterotomy represents a new technique that expands the ability of the surgeon to manage complex choledocholithiasis at the time of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The authors describe their experience with six patients with cholelithiasis and complex common bile duct stone disease who underwent successful laparoscopic cholecystectomy and antegrade sphincterotomies.

Summary background data: Patients with complex choledocholithiasis have represented a technical challenge to the minimally invasive surgeon. Recently, a laparoscopic technique of antegrade biliary sphincterotomy has been reported by DePaulo in Brazil. This technique has been successful at clearing the common bile duct at the time of laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods: Laparoscopic antegrade sphincterotomy was performed in six patients with multiple common bile duct stones. A standard endoscopic sphincterotome was introduced antegrade via the cystic duct or common bile duct and guided through the ampulla. A side-viewing duodenoscope was used to confirm proper positioning of the sphincterotome. Then a blended current was applied until the sphincterotomy was complete.

Results: There was no mortality or morbidity associated with laparoscopic antegrade sphincterotomy. The mean additional operative time to complete laparoscopic antegrade sphincterotomy was 19 minutes. Three of the six patients were noted to have transient, asymptomatic elevation in serum amylase levels immediately after surgery (average 252 international units/L; normal < 115), which normalized within 72 hours. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 2.9 days. At a mean follow-up of 5 months (range 1 to 10 months), five patients remain asymptomatic. One individual with acquired immune deficiency syndrome had persistent symptoms, and a diagnosis of cytomegalovirus pancreatitis was eventually made.

Conclusions: Laparoscopic antegrade sphincterotomy appears to be a safe and effective technique for the management of complex biliary tract disease.