Laparoscopic management of common bile duct stones.

There are various techniques available for laparoscopic exploration of the common bile duct, but the most widely used are pharmacological relaxation of the sphincter of Oddi and saline flushing, laparoscopic transcystic exploration, and laparoscopic choledochotomy. Altogether 1319 patients have been reported in retrospective and prospective uncontrolled studies with more than 50 patients in each. The conclusion is that it is possible to make a laparoscopic exploration of the common bile duct in selected cases with low morbidity and mortality. As surgeons gain more experience they also learn who is and who is not a suitable candidate for this surgical option.