Lost gallstones--a small but real complication.

Retained gallstones are considered a complication of cholecystectomies. If stones can be removed using minimally invasive procedures (i.e., laparoscopically), patients' recovery time may decrease and satisfaction may increase. Correct and immediate diagnosis of this complication at the time of the procedure often is the determining factor between patients' full recovery and their potential chronic illness. This article describes diagnostic tests and techniques used to surgically correct this complication and presents two case studies depicting patients' experiences from a few months to nine years postoperatively.