BACKGROUND: Endoscopic papillary dilation (EPD) by balloon in the management of bile duct stones has recently been claimed to be effective for removing bile duct stones. METHODS: Without endoscopic sphincterotomy, we attempted to remove large or multiple bile duct stones through EPD combined with drip infusion of isosorbide dinitrate in 35 patients. Isosorbide dinitrate, at a rate of 5 mg/h, was administered intravenously, and a balloon dilator with a 10-mm diameter was inflated within 3 min across the papilla. Stones were then smashed using a mechanical lithotriptor, and the fragments were extracted with a basket or the balloon. RESULTS: Extraction of stones was successful in 33 (94%) of 35 patients by the combined therapy. Two of them (6%) developed mild pancreatitis. CONCLUSION: EPD combined with medical sphincter dilation was effective for large and multiple bile duct stones.
BACKGROUND: Endoscopic papillary dilation (EPD) by balloon in the management of bile duct stones has recently been claimed to be effective for removing bile duct stones. METHODS: Without endoscopic sphincterotomy, we attempted to remove large or multiple bile duct stones through EPD combined with drip infusion of isosorbide dinitrate in 35 patients. Isosorbide dinitrate, at a rate of 5 mg/h, was administered intravenously, and a balloon dilator with a 10-mm diameter was inflated within 3 min across the papilla. Stones were then smashed using a mechanical lithotriptor, and the fragments were extracted with a basket or the balloon. RESULTS: Extraction of stones was successful in 33 (94%) of 35 patients by the combined therapy. Two of them (6%) developed mild pancreatitis. CONCLUSION: EPD combined with medical sphincter dilation was effective for large and multiple bile duct stones.