Extraction of retained gallstones using a fiber-choledochoscope through a PTC-drainage fistula.

After unsuccessful attempts to completely remove gallstones, endoscopic papillotomy was carried out to remove the stones after closure of the T-tube tract. We treated two patients with successful extraction of retained gallstones using a fiber-choledochoscope through a percutaneous transhepatic cholangio-drainage (PTCD) fistula. This technique can be applied in cases when endoscopic papillotomy cannot be performed or for patients who are poor risks for repeat surgery.