Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration to treat choledocholithiasis in situs inversus patients:A technical review

Situs inversus(SI)is a rare congenital condition characterized by a mirror-image transposition of the major visceral organs.Since the 1990s,more than one hundred SI patients have been reported to have successfully undergone laparoscopic cholecystectomy.In these cases,the major problem is to overcome is the left-right condition for right-handed surgeons.Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration(LCBDE),an alternative to treat patients with bile duct stones,has shown equivalent efficacy and is less likely to cause pancreatitis than endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography.Recent updated meta-analyses revealed that a shorter postoperative hospital stay,fewer procedural interventions,cost-effectiveness,a higher stone clearance rate,and fewer perioperative complications are additional advantages of LCBDE.However,the technique is technically demanding,even for skilled laparoscopic surgeons.Conducting LCBDE in patients with difficult situations,such as SI,is more complex than usual.We herein review published SI patients with choledocholithiasis treated by LCBDE,including our own experience,and this paper focuses on the technical aspects.

Clinical efficacy of laparoscopic cholecystectomy plus cholangioscopy for the treatment of cholecystolithiasis combined with choledocholithiasis

BACKGROUND Currently,endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)plus laparoscopic cholecystectomy(LC)is the main treatment for cholecystolithiasis combined with choledocholithiasis.However,the treatment is unsatisfactory,and the development of better therapies is needed.AIM To determine the clinical efficacy of LC plus cholangioscopy for cholecystolithiasis combined with choledocholithiasis.METHODS Patients(n=243)with cholecystolithiasis and choledocholithiasis admitted to The Affiliated Haixia Hospital of Huaqiao University(910th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force)between January 2019 and December 2023 were included in the study;111 patients(control group)underwent ERCP+LC and 132 patients(observation group)underwent LC+laparoscopic common bile duct exploration(LCBDE).Surgical success rates,residual stone rates,complications(pancreatitis,hyperamylasemia,biliary tract infection,and bile leakage),surgical indicators[intraoperative blood loss(IBL)and operation time(OT)],recovery indices(postoperative exhaust/defecation time and hospital stay),and serum inflammatory markers[C-reactive protein(CRP)],tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),and interleukin-6(IL-6)were compared.RESULTS No significant differences in surgical success rates and residual stone rates were detected between the observation and control groups.However,the complication rate,IBL,OT,postoperative exhaust/defecation time,and hospital stays were significantly reduced in the observation group compared with the control group.Furthermore,CRP,TNF-α,and IL-6 Levels after treatment were reduced in the observation group compared with the levels in the control group.CONCLUSION These results indicate that LC+LCBDE is safer than ERCP+LC for the treatment of cholecystolithiasis combined with choledocholithiasis.The surgical risks and postoperative complications were lower in the observation group compared with the control group.Thus,patients may recover quickly with less inflammation after LCBDE.

Outcomes of laparoscopic bile duct exploration for choledocholithiasis with small common bile duct

BACKGROUND Laparoscopic cholecystectomy(LC)combined with laparoscopic common bile duct(CBD)exploration(LCBDE)is one of the main treatments for choledocholithiasis with CBD diameter of larger than 10 mm.However,for patients with small CBD(CBD diameter≤8 mm),endoscopic sphincterotomy remains the preferred treatment at present,but it also has some drawbacks associated with a series of complications,such as pancreatitis,hemorrhage,cholangitis,and duodenal perforation.To date,few studies have been reported that support the feasibility and safety of LCBDE for choledocholithiasis with small CBD.AIM To investigate the feasibility and safety of LCBDE for choledocholithiasis with small CBD.METHODS A total of 257 patients without acute cholangitis who underwent LC+LCBDE for cholecystolithiasis from January 2013 to December 2018 in one institution were reviewed.The clinical data were retrospectively collected and analyzed.According to whether the diameter of CBD was larger than 8 mm,257 patients were divided into large CBD group(n=146)and small CBD group(n=111).Propensity score matching(1:1)was performed to adjust for clinical differences.The demographics,intraoperative data,short-term outcomes,and long-term follow-up outcomes for the patients were recorded and compared.RESULTS In total,257 patients who underwent successful LC+LCBDE were enrolled in the study,146 had large CBD and 111 had small CBD.The median follow-up period was 39(14-86)mo.For small CBD patients,the median CBD diameter was 0.6 cm(0.2-2.0 cm),the mean operating time was 107.2±28.3 min,and the postoperative bile leak rate,rate of residual CBD stones(CBDS),CBDS recurrence rate,and CBD stenosis rate were 5.41%(6/111),3.60%(4/111),1.80%(2/111),and 0%(0/111),respectively;the mean postoperative hospital stay was 7.4±3.6 d.For large CBD patients,the median common bile duct diameter was 1.0 cm(0.3-3.0 cm),the mean operating time was 115.7±32.0 min,and the postoperative bile leak rate,rate of residual CBDS,CBDS recurrence rate,and CBD stenosis rate were 5.41%(9/146),1.37%(2/146),6.85%(10/146),and 0%(0/146),respectively;the mean postoperative hospital stay was 7.7±2.7 d.After propensity score matching,184 patients remained,and all preoperative covariates except diameter of CBD stones were balanced.Postoperative bile leak occurred in 11 patients overall(5.98%),and no difference was found between the small CBD group(4.35%,4/92)and the large CBD group(7.61%,7/92).The incidence of CBDS recurrence did not differ significantly between the small CBD group(2.17%,2/92)and the large CBD group(6.52%,6/92).CONCLUSION LC+LCBDE is safe and feasible for choledocholithiasis patients with small CBD and did not increase the postoperative bile leak rate compared with choledocholithiasis patients with large CBD.

Hem-o-lok clip migration to the common bile duct after laparoscopic common bile duct exploration:A case report

BACKGROUND Laparoscopic cholecystectomy(LC)and laparoscopic common bile duct exploration(LCBDE)has been widely used for management of gallbladder and common bile duct(CBD)stones.Post-operative clip migration is a rare complication of laparoscopic biliary surgery,which can serve as a nidus for stone formation and cause recurrent cholangitis.CASE SUMMARY A 59-year-old female was admitted to hospital because of fever and acute right upper abdominal pain.She has a history of LC and had a LCBDE surgery 2 mo ago.Physical examination revealed tenderness in the upper quadrant of right abdomen.Computed tomography scan demonstrated a high-density shadow at the distal CBD,which was considered as migrated clips.The speculation was confirmed by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography examination,and two displaced Hem-o-lok clips were removed with a stone basket.No fever or abdominal pain presented after the operation.In addition to the case report,literature regarding surgical clip migration after laparoscopic biliary surgery was reviewed and discussed.CONCLUSION Incidence of postoperative clip migration may be reduced by using clips properly and correctly;however,new methods should be explored to occlude cystic duct and vessels.If a patient with a past history of LC or LCBDE presents with features of sepsis and recurrent upper quadrant pain,clip migration must be considered as one of the differential diagnosis.

Hem-o-lok clip migration to duodenal bulb post-cholecystectomy:A case report

BACKGROUND Hem-o-lok clips are typically used to control the cystic duct and vessels during laparoscopic cholecystectomy(LC)and common bile duct exploration for stones in the bile duct and gallbladder.Here,we report a unique example of Hem-o-lok clip movement towards the duodenal bulb after LC,appearing as a submucosal tumor(SMT).Additionally,we provide initial evidence of gradual and evolving endoscopic manifestations of Hem-o-lok clip migration to the duodenal bulb wall and review the available literature.CASE SUMMARY A 72-year-old man underwent LC for gallstones,and Hem-o-lok clips were used to ligate both the cystic duct and cystic artery.Esophagogastroduodenoscopy(EGD)2 years later revealed an SMT-like lesion in the duodenal bulb.Due to the symptomatology,the clinical examination did not reveal any major abnormalities,and the patient was followed up as an outpatient.A repeat EGD performed 5 months later revealed an SMT-like lesion in the duodenal bulb with raised edges and a central depression.A third EGD was conducted,during which a Hem-o-lok clip was discovered connected to the front side of the duodenum.The clip was extracted easily using biopsy forceps,and no complications occurred.Two months after the fourth EGD,the scar was surrounded by normal mucosa.CONCLUSION Clinicians should be aware of potential post-LC complications.Hem-o-lok clips should be removed if symptomatic.

Surgical strategies for challenging common bile duct stones in the endoscopic era: A comprehensive review of current evidence

While endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)remains the primary treatment modality for common bile duct stones(CBDS)or choledocho-lithiasis due to advancements in instruments,surgical intervention,known as common bile duct exploration(CBDE),is still necessary in cases of difficult CBDS,failed endoscopic treatment,or altered anatomy.Recent evidence also supports CBDE in patients requesting single-step cholecystectomy and bile duct stone removal with comparable outcomes.This review elucidates relevant clinical anatomy,selection indications,and outcomes to enhance surgical understanding.The selection between trans-cystic(TC)vs trans-choledochal(TD)approaches is described,along with stone removal techniques and ductal closure.Detailed surgical techniques and strategies for both the TC and TD approaches,including instrument selection,is also provided.Additionally,this review comprehensively addresses operation-specific complications such as bile leakage,stricture,and entrapment,and focuses on preventive measures and treatment strategies.This review aims to optimize the management of CBDS through laparoscopic CBDE,with the goal of improving patient outcomes and minimizing risks.

Predictors of common bile duct lithiasis in laparoscopic era

AIM: To analyze retrospectively the records of 294 conse-cutive patients operated upon for gallbladder stones, to determine the predictive factors of synchronous common bile duct (CBD) stones and validate prospectively the generated model. METHODS: The prognostic estimation of a biochemical test and ultrasonography alone to differentiate between the absence and presence of choledocholithiasis was assessed using receiver operating characteristics curve analysis. Multivariate analysis was employed using discriminant analysis for establishment of a best model. Prospective validation of the model was made.RESULTS: Discriminant forward stepwise analysis disclosed that high values (≥ 2×normal) of SGOT, ALP, conjugated bilirubin and CBD diameter on ultrasound ≥ 10 mm were all prognostic factors of CBD lithiasis in univariate and multivariate analysis, P＜0.01. History was not included in the model. Prospective validation of the model was performed by multivariate analysis using Visual General Stepwise Regression. Positive predictive value,when considering all these predictors, was 93.3%, while the negative predictive value was 88.8%. Sensitivity of the model was 96.5% and specificity 80%.CONCLUSION: The above model can be objectively applied to predict the presence of CBD stones.

Single-session minimally invasive management of common bile duct stones

Up to 18% of patients submitted to cholecystectomy had concomitant common bile duct stones.To avoid serious complications,these stones should be removed.There is no consensus about the ideal management strategy for such patients.Traditionally,open surgery was offered but with the advent of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) and laparoscopic cholecystectomy(LC) minimally invasive approach had nearly replaced laparotomy because of its well-known advantages.Minimally invasive approach could be done in either twosession(preoperative ERCP followed by LC or LC followed by postoperative ERCP) or single-session(laparoscopic common bile duct exploration or LC with intraoperative ERCP).Most recent studies have found that both options are equivalent regarding safety and efficacy but the singlesession approach is associated with shorter hospital stay,fewer procedures per patient,and less cost.Consequently,single-session option should be offered to patients with cholecysto-choledocholithiaisis provided that local resources and expertise do exist.However,the management strategy should be tailored according to many variables,such as available resources,experience,patient characteristics,clinical presentations,and surgical pathology.

Appendicular Abscess: Unusual Clinico-Radiological Appearance

Introduction: Appendicitis is the most common surgical emergency in childhood. It’s a common surgical disease that can be presented with a wide variety of atypical clinical features. Clinical Case: We report a case of a 7-year-old female patient admitted for abdominal pain dating back 20 days, radiological exploration suggested a right ovarian teratoma, while laparoscopic exploration has objective an appendicular abscess. Conclusion: This case has allowed us to clarify an atypical case of complicated appendicitis, and also to show the contribution of laparoscopy.

Reoperation of biliary tract by laparoscopy:Experiences with 39 cases

AIM:To evaluate the safety and feasibility of biliary tract reoperation by laparoscopy for the patients with retained or recurrent stones who failed in endoscopic sphincterotomy. METHODS:A retrospective analysis of data obtained from attempted laparoscopic reoperation for 39 patients in a single institution was performed, examining open conversion rates, operative times, complications, and hospital stay. RESULTS:Out of the 39 cases, 38 (97%) completed laparoscopy, 1 required conversion to open operation because of difficulty in exposing the common bile duct. The mean operative time was 135 min. The mean post-operative hospital stay was 4 d. Procedures included laparoscopic residual gallbladder resection in 3 cases, laparoscopic common bile duct exploration and primary duct closure at choledochotomy in 13 cases, and laparoscopic common bile duct exploration and choledochotomy with T tube drainage in 22 cases. Duodenal perforation occurred in 1 case during dissection and was repaired laparoscopically. Retained stones were found in 2 cases. Postoperative asymptomatic hyperamlasemia occurred in 3 cases. There were no complications due to port placement, postoperative bleeding, bile or bowel leakage and mortality. No recurrence or formation of duct stricture was observed during a mean follow-up period of 18 mo. CONCLUSION:Laparoscopic biliary tract reoperation is safe and feasible if it is performed by experiencedlaparoscopic surgeons, and is an alternative choice for patients with choledocholithiasis who fail in endoscopic sphincterectomy.

Primary duct closure versus T-tube drainage after laparoscopic common bile duct exploration:a meta-analysis

Background and aims:Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration(LCBDE)is considered a safe and effective method for the removal of bile duct stones.However,the choice of primary duct closure(PDC)or T-tube drainage(TTD)technique after LCBDE is still controversial.This study aimed to compare the safety and effectiveness of PDC and TTD after LCBDE.Methods:Studies published before May 1,2021 in Pub Med,Web of Science,and Cochrane Library databases were searched to screen out randomized controlled trials(RCTs)and cohort studies to compare PDC with TTD.Meta-analyses of fixed effect and random effect models were performed using Rev Man 5.3.Results:A total of 1865 patients were enrolled in six RCTs and ten cohort studies.Regarding RCTs,the PDC group was significantly better than the TTD group in terms of operation time,total postoperative complications,postoperative hospital stay,and hospitalization expenses(all P<0.05).Based on cohort studies of the subgroup,the PDC group had shorter operation time,shorter postoperative hospital stay,less intraoperative blood loss,and limited total postoperative complications.Statistically,there were no significant differences in bile leakage,retained stones,stone recurrence,bile duct stricture,postoperative pancreatitis,other complications,or postoperative exhaust time between the TTD and PDC groups.Conclusions:Based on the available evidence,compared with TTD,PDC is safe and effective,and can be used as the first choice after transductal LCBDE in patients with choledocholithiasis.

Acupuncture Combined with Early Enteral Nutrition on Patients with Postoperative Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration:A Prospective Randomized Trial

Objective To assess the efficiency of acupuncture combined with early enteral nutrition(EEN)in patients with postoperative laparoscopic common bile duct exploration.Methods A total of 200 patients with postoperative laparoscopic bile duct exploration was randomized using sealed envelopes and assigned to the convenitional,EEN,acupuncture plus convenitional and acupuncture plus EEN groups,50 cases in each group.Twelve hours after operation,the patients in EEN groups began to receive oral enteral nutrition,and the acupuncture approach was performed by acupuncturist in acupuncture plus conventional and acupuncture plus EEN groups.Acupuncture was given at Zusanli(ST 36),Shangjuxu(ST 37)and Xiajuxu(ST 39)with a depth of 15–20 mm,using the lifting-thrusting and twisting method to obtain Deqi sensation.The needles were maintained for 30 min.Treatment was given once daily,3 times per section.After the intervention,the patients’characteristics,operation time,bleeding volume,postoperative time to first anal exhaust,postoperative complications including abdominal distension,diarrhea,gastric dilatation,intestinal obstruction,pharyngodynia,incision,abdominal and pulmonary infection and postoperative hospitalization days were assessed and compared in patients among 4 groups.Results Postoperative time to first anal exhaust in the convenitional group was longer compared with the other 3 groups(P<0.05),and was shorter in the acupuncture plus EEN group than those of the convenitional,acupuncture plus convenitional and EEN groups(P<0.01).The acupuncture plus EEN group showed significant decrease in the incidence of complications and less postoperative hospitalization days compared with the other groups(P<0.05 or P<0.01).There was no readmission.Conclusion After laparoscopic bile duct exploration,acupuncture combined with EEN treatment significantly improves the patients’gastrointestinal function,reduces complications,and shortens postoperative hospitalization days.

Multimodal treatments of “gallstone cholangiopancreatitis”

Gallstone cholangiopancreatitis is a potentially life-threatening pathology which requires quick intervention involving endoscopists,interventional radiologists,anesthesiologists and surgeons in relation to clinical conditions.Treatment possibilities are varied,especially with current progress in advanced endoscopy,interventional radiology,and minimally invasive surgery.The following treatments are available:endoscopic sphincterotomy(ES)with stone extraction followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy;simultaneous endoscopic stone extraction with laparoscopic cholecystectomy(rendezvous technique);combined laparoscopic cholecystectomy and common bile duct(CBD)exploration;open CBD exploration;ES post-cholecystectomy;percutaneous placement of biliary drains for unstable patients,followed by percutaneous cholangioscopy;and lithotripsy with different approaches,including a laser and balloon dilation of the sphincter of Oddi.Each technique has its strengths and weaknesses,and there is great discussion in the literature on choosing the ideal approach based on the patient’s clinical conditions.

How to choose the most appropriate technique for the single-stage treatment of cholecysto-choledocolithiasis?

Background:We utilized transcystic clearance and intra-operative papillotomy through a rendezvous technique for the treatment of cholecysto-choledocolithiasis.The goal of this study was to evaluate the reliability of pre-operative parameters to address the most suitable surgical procedure.Methods:A total of 180 patients affected by calculi of the gallbladder and bile duct underwent the single-stage treatment.According to several pre-operative parameters,141 patients had to supposedly undergo transcystic clearance of the bile duct,while 39 patients had to be treated with the rendezvous technique.All patients were treated with the sequential procedure:first,we tried the transcystic procedure and,if there was a failure,we used a rendezvous technique.We prospectively analysed each group based on a series of variables such as sex,age,operative time,success rate of proposed treatment,conversion rate,post-operative complications and hospital stay.Results:Transcystic clearance was successful in 134 out of 141 patients(95.0%),while 2 patients needed to undergo a laparo-endoscopy procedure(failure).Thirty-five out of 39 patients(89.7%)obtained common bile-duct(CBD)clearance through the rendezvous technique,while 1 patient obtained clean-up through the simple transcystic procedure(failure).Five out of 141 patients with transcystic clearance and 3 out of 39 patients with the rendezvous technique underwent laparotomy CBD clearance with conversion rates of 3.5%and 7.7%,respectively.Post-operative complications showed similar percentages for both procedures.However,the surgical time turned out to be longer for the rendezvous technique.Conclusions:The one-stage procedure for the treatment of cholecysto-choledocolithiasis was possible in 94%of the cases utilizing a surgical technique selected according to the patient’s case history.The pre-operative parameters,such as jaundice,CBD diameters and stone diameters,have certified their reliability as good predictors of the most suitable procedure to follow.