[Clinical significance of pathohistological findings of the ampulla of Vater (author's transl)].

The 116 transduodenal papilloplasties were performed for common duct stones, ampulla, or for benign stenosis without stones. The indication for these operations were based on the results of intraoperative radiomanometry. Biopsies were taken from the papilla and the liver. Of the patients, 64% had pathohistological changes in the papilla and 69% in the liver. A close relationship existed between histological changes of the papilla and pathological liver biopsies or enlargement of the common duct. If it is suspected that the papilla is involved a primary operative revision is advised.