Long-term consequence of endoscopic sphincterotomy for bile duct stones

Antegrade balloon dilatation of the duodenal papilla during laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus endoscopic retrograde cholangiography in patients with acute choledocholithiasis: a case control matched study

INTRODUCTION

In acute obstructive common bile duct (CBD) stones endoscopic retrograde cholangiography for CBD stone removal before cholecystectomy (ChE) ('ERC-first') is the gold standard of treatment. Intraoperative antegrade balloon dilatation of the duodenal papilla during ChE with flushing of CBD stones to the duodenum ('ABD-during-ChE') may be an alternative 'one-stop-shop' treatment option. However, a comparison of outcomes of the 'ABD-during-ChE' technique and the'ERC-first' approach has never been performed.

METHODS

Retrospective case control matched study of patients suffering from obstructive CBD stones (< 8 mm) without severe pancreatitis or cholangitis that underwent the traditional 'ERC-first' approach versus the 'ABD-during-ChE' technique. Primary endpoint was the overall Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI®) from diagnosis to complete CBD stone removal and performed ChE.

RESULTS

A total of 70 patients were included (35 patients each in the 'ERC first'- and 'ABD-during-ChE'-group). There were no statistical significant differences in terms of demographics and disease specific characteristics between the two study groups. However, there was a not significant difference towards an increased overall CCI® in the 'ERC-first' group versus the 'ABD-during-ChE' group (14.4 ± 15.4 versus 9.8 ± 11.1, p = 0.225). Of note, six major complications (Clavien-Dindo classification ≥ IIIa) occurred in the 'ERC-first' group versus two in the 'ABD-during-ChE' group (17% versus 6%, p = 0.136). In addition, significantly more interventions and a longer overall time from diagnosis to complete clearance of bile ducts and performed ChE was found, when comparing the 'ERC-first' group and the 'ABD-during-ChE' group (3.7 ± 0.8 versus 1.1 ± 0.4, p < 0.001; 160.5 ± 228.6 days versus 12.0 ± 18.0 days, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In patients suffering from acute obstructive CBD stones smaller than 8 mm, compared to the 'ERC-first' approach, the 'ABD-during-ChE' technique resulted in significantly less interventions and reduced overall treatment time from diagnosis to complete clearance of bile ducts and performed ChE. This comes together with a strong trend of less intervention related complications in the 'ABD-during-ChE' group.

Feasibility and safety of intraoperative bile duct clearance by antegrade transcystic balloon sphincteroplasty: A prospective observational pilot study

BACKGROUND

Concomitant cholecystolithiasis and choledocholithiasis are common. Standard treatments are endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) followed by cholecystectomy or laparoendoscopic rendezvous. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography has drawbacks, such as post-ERC pancreatitis or bleeding, and potentially more than one intervention is required to address common bile duct (CBD) stones. Safety and feasibility of an intraoperative antegrade transcystic single-stage approach during cholecystectomy with balloon sphincteroplasty and pushing of stones to the duodenum has not been evaluated prospectively. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate this procedure regarding safety, feasibility, and stone clearance rate.

METHODS

Prospective single-center intervention study (SUPER Reporting-Guideline). Main inclusion criterion was confirmed choledocholithiasis (stones ≤6 mm) at intraoperative cholangiography. Success of the procedure was defined as CBD stone clearance at intraoperative control cholangiography, absence of symptoms and no elevated cholestasis parameters at 6 weeks follow-up. Simon's two-stage design was used to determine sample size.

RESULTS

From January 2021 to April 2022, a total of 57 patients fulfilled the final inclusion criteria and were included. Mild pancreatitis or cholangitis were present upon admission in 15 (26%) and 15 (26%) patients, respectively. Median number of CBD-stones was 1 (1-6). Median stone diameter was 4 mm (0.1-6 mm). Common bile duct stone clearance was achieved in 54 patients (94%). The main reason for failed CBD clearance was the inability to push the guidewire along the biliary stone into the duodenum. Median intervention time was 28 minutes (14-129 minutes). While there was no postoperative pancreatitis, two patients (3.5%) had asymptomatic hyperlipasemia 4 hours postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative CBD stone clearance by antegrade balloon sphincteroplasty appears to be safe and highly feasible. Its overall superiority to the current standards warrants evaluation by a randomized controlled trial.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management, Level V.

Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for cholelithiasis 2021

The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology first published evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for cholelithiasis in 2010, followed by a revision in 2016. Currently, the revised third edition was published to reflect recent evidence on the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of cholelithiasis conforming to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system. Following this revision, the present English version of the guidelines was updated and published herein. The clinical questions (CQ) in the previous version were reviewed and rearranged into three newly divided categories: background questions (BQ) dealing with basic background knowledge, CQ, and future research questions (FRQ), which refer to issues that require further accumulation of evidence. Finally, 52 questions (29 BQs, 19 CQs, and 4 FRQs) were adopted to cover the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, complications, and prognosis. Based on a literature search using MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Igaku Chuo Zasshi databases for the period between 1983 and August 2019, along with a manual search of new information reported over the past 5 years, the level of evidence was evaluated for each CQ. The strengths of recommendations were determined using the Delphi method by the committee members considering the body of evidence, including benefits and harms, patient preference, and cost-benefit balance. A comprehensive flowchart was prepared for the diagnosis and treatment of gallbladder stones, common bile duct stones, and intrahepatic stones, respectively. The current revised guidelines are expected to be of great assistance to gastroenterologists and general physicians in making decisions on contemporary clinical management for cholelithiasis patients.

Primary suture for patients of bile duct stones after laparoscopic biliary tract exploration: a retrospective cohort study

There are still many physicians who are reluctant to use primary biliary suture in Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) for fear of more complications. We compare and analyze the clinical effectiveness of bile duct primary suture with three laparoscopic ports and indwelling T-tube drainage (with four laparoscopic ports) in patients with choledocholithiasis after LCBDE. Clinical data of 135 patients with common bile duct (CBD) stone were compared, including general conditions, postoperative hospital stay, postoperative complications, hospitalization costs, postoperative follow-up and other indicators. Forty-eight patients underwent primary suture of bile duct (group A) and 87 were treated with external T-tube drainage (group B). There were no significant differences between the two groups neither relating to the age, gender, BMI, diameter of CBD, number of stones, preoperative bilirubin value, number of previous surgeries in preoperative, nor the operation time, residual stones, the number of cases converted from laparoscopic conversion to laparotomy. The postoperative complications like fever, bleeding, incision infection, bile duct stricture has no differences between two group. The incidence of bile leakage (p = 0.008) and postoperative electrolyte disturbance (p = 0.001) were slightly lower in group A. There were fewer postoperative complications in group A vs group B (p = 0.04). Patients in group A experienced shorter postoperative hospital stay (p < 0.001), earlier postoperative extubation (p < 0.001), lower total hospitalization costs (p = 0.03), and earlier postoperative recovery (p = 0.000). Primary suture of CBD is a safe and effective method for some patients after LCBDE.

Comparing Stone Recurrence Following Surgical Common Bile Duct Exploration or Endoscopic Stone Extraction for Patients with Common Bile Duct Stones

Background: Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) are two methods of retrieving common bile duct (CBD) stones. Aspects of CBD stone management, such as sphincterotomy, have been implicated as risks for CBD stone recurrence although evidence is weak. The aim of this study was to compare stone recurrence following LCBDE and/or ERCP. Methods: Data were collected retrospectively for patients undergoing LCBDE and/or ERCP for CBD stones at a single center from 2008 to 2018. Primary outcome was stone recurrence (>6 months after duct clearance). Risk factors for recurrence were assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses. Results: A total of 445 patients underwent LCBDE-only, 79 patients underwent ERCP-only and 80 patients underwent LCBDE-ERCP. LCBDE-only patients were younger and preoperatively less morbid than ERCP-only patients. Although there was no significant difference for recurrence, there was a trend toward higher recurrence with ERCP-only compared with LCBDE-only and LCBDE-ERCP (5.1% versus 2.0% and 2.5%, P = .280). On univariate comparison, patients with a recurrence were significantly older, had a higher admission white cell count, higher number of ERCPs, increased transampullary stent use, and higher maximum CBD diameter. Total number of ERCP was the only independent predictor of stone recurrence (odds ratio 6.85 [2.55-18.42], P < .001) following multivariate regression. Conclusion: Management plan was not associated with stone recurrence. The total number of ERCP was the only independent predictor of recurrence. Within the limitations of case selection and bias toward LCBDE, this study suggests that limiting repeated ERCP may reduce CBD stone recurrence.

Development of upper gastrointestinal cancer in patients with symptomatic gallstones, cholecystectomy, and sphincterotomy: A nationwide cohort study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Exposures of gallstones and treatments thereof in relation to development of cancer have not been explored before in long-term follow-up studies. Our objective was to determine whether symptomatic gallstones, cholecystectomy, or sphincterotomy were associated with development of upper gastrointestinal cancers.

METHODS

This is a nationwide cohort study of persons born in Denmark 1930-1984 included from age 30 years with long-term follow-up (1977-2014). Exposures were hospital admissions with gallstones, cholecystectomy, and sphincterotomy. Time-varying covariates were included in analyses to allow the impact of exposures to change with time. Follow-up periods were 2-5 and > 5 years. Hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported.

RESULTS

A total of 4,465,962 persons were followed. We found positive associations between sphincterotomy and biliary (>5 years HR 4.34, CI [2.17-8.70]), gallbladder (2-5 years HR 20.7, CI [8.55-50.1]), and pancreatic cancer (2-5 years HR 3.68, CI [2.09-6.49]). Cholecystectomy was positively associated with duodenal (2-5 years HR 2.94, CI [1.31-6.58]) and small bowel cancer (2-5 years HR 2.75, CI [1.56-4.87]). Inverse associations were seen for cholecystectomy and biliary (>5 years HR 0.60, CI [0.41-0.87]), pancreatic (>5 years HR 0.45 CI [0.35-0.57]), esophageal (>5 years HR 0.57, CI [0.43-0.74]), and gastric cancer (>5 years HR 0.68, CI [0.55-0.86]) and for gallstones and pancreatic cancer (>5 years HR 0.66, CI [0.47-0.93]). Gallstones were positively associated with gallbladder (>5 years HR 3.51, CI [2.02-6.10]) and small bowel cancer (2-5 years HR 3.21, CI [1.60-6.45]).

CONCLUSIONS

A positive association between sphincterotomy and biliary cancer was identified. Cholecystectomy seems to be inversely associated with biliary, pancreatic, esophageal, and gastric cancer. Associations should be explored in similar large cohorts.

Predictors for stone recurrence after a successful common bile duct surgical exploration for choledocholithiasis

BACKGROUND

Recurrence after common bile duct stone (CBDS) clearance is the major long-term drawback of their management. Its prevalence is significant, and it occurs after all primary therapeutic alternatives. The aim of this study was to determine the predictive factors associated with stone recurrence after surgical common bile duct exploration (CBDE).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study based on patients undergoing CBDE between 2000 and 2018 was conducted. Uni- and multivariate hierarchical regression analyses were performed to assess the independent predictive factors associated with recurrent CBDS in patients with initially successful surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 365 patients underwent successful surgical procedures. After a median follow-up of 43.2 (IQR 84) months, 31 (8.4%) patients were diagnosed with CBD stone recurrence. The median time to recurrence was 30.3 (IQR 38) months. The only variable associated with CBDS recurrence was preoperative endoscopic sphincterotomy (HR 2.436, 95% CI: 1.031-5.751, P = 0.042)).

CONCLUSION

Patients who undergo preoperative endoscopic sphincterotomy and then cholecystectomy with successful common bile duct clearance may be at increased risk for recurrent stone disease compared to those who go straight to surgery.

Endoscopic Papillary Large Balloon Dilation Reduces Further Recurrence in Patients With Recurrent Common Bile Duct Stones: A Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

Up to 60% of patients with common bile duct stone (CBDS) recurrence suffer from further recurrence after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). There are no effective methods to prevent recurrence in most patients. In this study, we aimed to assess the short-term and long-term efficacies of endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation (EPLBD) for the management of recurrent CBDS in a randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with recurrent CBDS were eligible and randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to the EPLBD group or the control group. The primary outcome was the CBDS recurrence rate within 2 years after ERCP. The analysis followed the intention-to-treat principle.

RESULTS

From 2014 to 2021, 180 patients with recurrent CBDS were included, with 90 in each group. All patients underwent complete CBDS clearance by 1 or several sessions of ERCP. The rate of complete clearance in 1 session was significantly higher with EPLBD treatment (95.6% vs 85.6%, P = 0.017). During the follow-up, the CBDS recurrence rate within 2 years was significantly lower in the EPLBD group than in the control group (21.1% [19/90] vs 36.7% [33/90], relative risk 0.58, 95% confidence interval 0.36-0.93, P = 0.021). At a median follow-up of approximately 56 months, CBDS recurrence was found in 34.4% of the patients (31/90) in the EPLBD group and 51.1% (46/90) in the control group (hazard ratio 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.36-0.89, P = 0.012). Multiple recurrences (≥2) were also decreased in the EPLBD group (4.4% vs 18.9%, P = 0.020).

DISCUSSION

During the long-term follow-up, nearly half of the patients with recurrent CBDS experienced stone recurrence after traditional ERCP. Our study was the first to show that EPLBD effectively reduced the recurrence of CBDS.

Analysis of symptomatic recurrences of common bile ducts stones after endoscopic removal: Factors related to early or multiple recurrences

Early or multiple recurrences of symptomatic common bile duct (CBD) stones are troublesome late complications after endoscopic stone removal. We aimed to determine the factors related to early or multiple recurrences of CBD stones.We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent endoscopic CBD stone extraction in a single institute between January 2006 and December 2015. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the number and interval of CBD stone recurrences: single versus multiple (≥2) and early (<1.5 years) versus late (≥1.5 years) recurrence.After exclusion, 78 patients were enrolled and followed up for a median of 1974 (IQR: 938-3239) days. Twenty-seven (34.6%) patients experienced multiple recurrences (≥2 times), and 26 (33.3%) patients experienced early first recurrence (<1.5 years). In the multivariate analysis, CBD angulation was independently related to multiple CBD stone recurrence (OR: 4.689, P = .016), and endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation was independently related to late first CBD stone recurrence (OR: 3.783, P = .025). The mean CBD angles were more angulated with increasing instances of recurrence (0, 1, 2, 3, and ≥4 times) with corresponding values of 150.3°, 148.2°, 143.6°, 142.2°, and 126.7°, respectively (P = .011). The period between the initial treatment and first recurrence was significantly longer than the period between the first and second recurrence (P = .048).In conclusion, greater CBD angulation is associated with the increased number of CBD stone recurrence, and EPLBD delays the recurrence of CBD stones after endoscopic CBD stone removal.

Endoclip papillaplasty restores sphincter of Oddi function: Pilot study

OBJECTIVES

Endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) damaged the sphincter of Oddi (SO) function. This study aimed to explore the feasibility and efficacy of endoclip papillaplasty in restoring SO function.

METHODS

This prospective pilot study included consecutive patients with choledocholithiasis (stone size ≥10 mm) who underwent large-EST for stone removal, followed by endoclip papillaplasty, between May 2018 and March 2019.

RESULTS

Thirty patients were enrolled in this trail. Overall, 80% of the patients had a SO basal pressure of >10 mmHg after endoclip papillaplasty. Manometric parameters, including SO basal pressure, phasic wave contraction amplitude, phasic waves per minute, recovered after endoclip papillaplasty (P > 0.05). There were no significant differences in the manometric parameters of SO between healing grades A and B. Six patients developed mild post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis, including three that had pancreatic stenting. Bile duct stone recurrence developed in 3.3% of the patients (1/30) during an 18-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoclip papillaplasty might restore SO function and possibly prevented biliary stone and cholangitis recurrence.

Contemporary management of concomitant gallstones and common bile duct stones: a survey of Spanish surgeons

BACKGROUND

Concomitant gallstones and common bile duct stones (CBDS) is a relatively frequent presentation. The optimal treatment remains controversial and the debate persists between two strategies. The one-stage approach: laparoscopic cholecystectomy with laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) has been shown to be equally safe and more cost-effective than the more traditional two-stage approach: endoscopic retrograde cholangiography followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ERCP + LC). However, many surgeons worldwide still prefer the two-stage procedure. This survey evaluated contemporary management of CBDS in Spain and assessed the impact of surgeon and hospital factors on provision of LCBDE.

METHODS

A 25-item, web-based anonymous survey was sent to general surgeons members of the Spanish Surgeons Association. Descriptive statistics were applied to summarize results.

RESULTS

Responses from 305 surgeons across 173 Spanish hospitals were analyzed. ERCP is the initial approach for preoperatively suspected CBDS for 86% of surgeons. LCBDE is the preferred method for only 11% of surgeons and only 11% treat more than 10 cases per year. For CBDS discovered intraoperatively, 59% of respondents attempt extraction while 32% defer to a postoperative ERCP. The main reasons cited for not performing LCBDE were lack of equipment, training and timely availability of an ERCP proceduralist. Despite these barriers, most surgeons (84%) responded that LCBDE should be implemented in their departments.

CONCLUSIONS

ERCP was the preferred approach for CBDS for the majority of respondents. There remains limited use of LCBDE despite many surgeons indicating it should be implemented. Focused planning and resourcing of both training and operational demands are required to facilitate adoption of LCBDE as option for patients.

Increased Risk of Pyogenic Liver Abscess after Endoscopic Sphincterotomy for Treatment of Choledocholithiasis

Background and Aim

Endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) abolished the barrier between the hepatobiliary system and duodenum and might be at risk of pyogenic liver abscess (PLA). We aimed to identify the association factors of PLA in patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedures for treatment of choledocholithiasis.

Methods

This study was based on the Chung Gung Research Database (CGRD) between January 1, 2001 and December 31, 2018. Those who had an International Classification of Diseases, Ninth and Tenth Revision (ICD9 and ICD10) codes of choledocholithiasis and received ERCP were enrolled. After strict exclusions, 11,697 patients were further divided into the endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) group (n=7,111) and other ERCP group (n=4,586) for analysis.

Results

Patients receiving ES had significantly higher rates of PLA than those of the other ERCP group (5-year cumulative incidence 2.4% versus 1.7%; 10-year cumulative incidence 3.9% versus 3.2%, log-rank p=0.0177). Aging, male gender, surgery for hepato-pancreato-biliary system and hepatobiliary malignancy were significant association factors of PLA. On multivariate analysis, the ES increased the risk of PLA (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]=1.49; 95% CI=1.12-1.98; p=0.0058) but decreased the risks for acute pancreatitis (aHR=0.72; 95% CI=0.60-0.85; p=0.0002) and cholangitis (aHR= 0.91; 95% CI=0.84-0.99; p=0.0259). There was no significant difference about recurrent choledocholithiasis between groups.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated a significant risk of PLA after patients receiving ES compared with the other ERCP group. We should also carefully monitor the association factors of PLA after ERCP treatment of choledocholithiasis including aging, male gender, surgery for the hepato-pancreato-biliary system and hepatobiliary malignancy.

Endoscopic endoclip papilloplasty preserves sphincter of oddi function

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) can destroy sphincter of Oddi (SO) structure and function. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of endoscopic endoclip papilloplasty (EEPP) in restoring SO function after EST.

METHODS

Seven 26-week-old domestic pigs were divided into control and EEPP groups. Necropsy and haematoxylin-eosin staining plus anti-α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) staining of papilla and sphincter of Oddi manometry (SOM) were conducted in animals at three independent time points.

RESULTS

EST and EEPP were safely performed in all 7 pigs without serious adverse events. For primary outcome, compared to the controls, EEPP generated smaller dilation and less inflammation. Fibrous repair of the papilla was observed at 24 weeks after EEPP. For secondary outcome, in the control group, SO basal pressure (17.25 ± 18.14 to 5.50 ± 0.71 mmHg), SO contraction amplitude (46.00 ± 19.20 to 34.50 ± 48.79 mmHg), peak (4.50 ± 4.04 to 1.50 ± 2.12) and frequency (3.05 ± 3.29 to 1.41 ± 2.19/min) were reduced after EST. Further reductions to almost 0 of these SOM parameters were observed 3 weeks later, including common bile duct pressure and SO contraction period. In contrast, in the EEPP group, these manometric data were recovered to pre-EST levels, including CBD pressure (11.5 ± 7.31 vs 11 ± 2.16 mmHg), SO pressure (17.50 ± 17.75 vs 18.20 ± 21.39 mmHg) and SO contraction amplitude (53.67 ± 21.54 vs 60.00 ± 36.08 mmHg). However, no significant differences were observed between control and EEPP groups by Student t test.

CONCLUSIONS

In this porcine study, EEPP accelerated and improved papillary healing after EST, further preserved SO function.

Clinical efficacy, timing, and outcomes of ERCP for management of bile duct leaks: a nationwide cohort study

Background and study aims  Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) can safely and effectively manage postsurgical or traumatic bile duct leaks (BDLs). Standardized guidelines are lacking regarding effective management of BDLs. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy, clinical outcomes, and complications of different ERCP techniques and intervention timing using a nationwide database. Patients and methods  We performed a retrospective analysis of the IBM Explorys database (1999-2019), a pooled, national, de-identified clinical database of over 64 million unique patients across the United States. ERCP timing after BDL was classified as emergent (< 1 day), urgent (1-3 days) or expectant (> 3 days). ERCP technique was classified into sphincterotomy, stent or combination therapy. ERCP complications were defined as pancreatitis, duodenal perforation, duodenal hemorrhage, and ascending cholangitis within 7 days of the procedure. Results  Expectant ERCP had a decreased risk of adverse events (AEs) compared to emergent and urgent ERCP ( P  = 0.004). Rehospitalization rates also were lower in expectant ERCP ( P  < 0.001). Patients with COPD were more likely to have an AE if the ERCP was performed emergently compared to expectantly ( P  = 0.002). Combination therapy had a lower rate of ERCP failure compared to placement of a biliary stent ( P  = 0.02). There was no statistically significant difference in rates of ERCP failure between biliary stent and sphincterotomy ( P  = 0.06) or sphincterotomy and combination therapy ( P  = 0.74). Conclusion  Our study suggests that ERCP does not need to be performed emergently or urgently for management of BDLs. Combination therapy is superior to stenting or sphincterotomy; however, future prospective studies are needed to validate these findings.

Biliary Microbial Structure of Gallstone Patients With a History of Endoscopic Sphincterotomy Surgery

The biliary microbiota is related to the pathogenesis of human bile duct stones. However, the extent to which a history of invasive endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) affects the biliary bacterial community remains largely unknown. We collected bile samples from the common bile duct of 100 choledocholithiasis patients. We performed 16S rRNA sequencing to investigate and compare the biliary microbial community. The patients without antibiotic treatment (AT) were grouped into three clusters based on their biliary microbial compositions. The patients with a history of EST were significantly enriched in one cluster mainly consisting of gastrointestinal bacteria compared with the other two clusters consisting of oral and environmental bacteria. The β-diversities of patients with and without EST were also significantly different, whereas the α-diversities were comparable. The only significantly enriched bacterial genus associated with a history of EST was Pyramidobacter, while eight other genera were significantly decreased. For patients with AT, seven of these genera maintained their association with EST, including Pyramidobacter. However, after AT, the difference in β-diversities was diminished. EST induced a marked shift in the biliary microbial composition. A cluster of biliary bacteria was associated with a history of EST, and Pyramidobacter was specific to EST.

Bile Duct Stones Predict a Requirement for Cholecystectomy in Older Patients

BACKGROUND

The requirement for elective cholecystectomy in older patients is unclear. To determine predictors for requiring elective cholecystectomy in older patients, a prospective cohort study was performed.

METHODS

All patients with gallstone disease who presented to our department from 2006 to 2018 were included if they met the following criteria: (1) age 75 years or older, (2) presentation for elective cholecystectomy, and (3) preoperative diagnosis of cholecystolithiasis. Two therapeutic options, elective surgery and a wait-and-see approach, were offered at their initial visit. Enrolled patients were assigned to one arm of the study according to their choice of the therapeutic options. The primary endpoint was the incidence of gallstone-related complications. The endpoint was compared between patients who underwent cholecystectomy (CH group) and those who chose a wait-and-see approach (No-CH group).

RESULTS

During the study period, there were 344 patients in the CH group and 161 in the No-CH group. Among patients with a history of bile duct stones, the incidence of gallstone-related complications in the No-CH group was significantly higher (45% within 3 years, including two gallstone-related deaths) than that in the CH group (RR 2.66, 95% confidence interval 1.50-4.77, p = 0.0009). Among patients with no history of bile duct stones, the incidence of gallstone-related complications in the No-CH group reached only 10% over the 12 years.

CONCLUSION

Cholecystectomy is recommended for older patients with both histories of cholecystolithiasis and bile duct stones, whereas a wait-and-see approach is preferable for patients with no bile duct stone history. A history of bile duct stones is a good predictor for cholecystectomy in older patients.

Risk factors and management of primary choledocholithiasis: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Primary choledocholithiasis (PC) is a common disease in biliary surgery. The treatment is always challenging due to its high recurrence. A systemic review is undertaken to determine the risk factors for recurrence and provide with the individualized management strategy.

METHODS

Electronic databases PubMed (Medline), Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Studies were searched for relevant articles on risk factors for PC recurrence. Its therapeutic intervention was also collected and analysed.

RESULTS

A total of 36 articles were eligible for inclusion. The recurrent risk factors include abnormalities of biliary anatomy (peripapillary diverticulum), dynamics (choledochal dilation, sharp angulation and stone number), metabolism (advanced age and hypothyroidism) and bacterial infection (Enterobacter and Helicobacter pylori). These factors eventually induce cholestasis and stone formation. At present, there is no guideline and expertise consensus for PC management. The treatment mainly consists of stone retrieval approaches and internal drainage surgeries. The former are minimally invasive methods: endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST), papillary balloon dilation (EPBD) and laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE). The latter include choledochoduodenostomy (CDS) and choledochojejunostomy (CJS) with Roux-en-Y reconstruction. By far, the internal drainage surgeries have significantly lower recurrence than stone retrieval approaches.

CONCLUSION

Abnormal biliary anatomy, dynamics, metabolism and bacterial infection are the risk factors for PC. Both EST/EPBD and LCBDE can be performed as initial treatment. For recurrent PC, CDS is more suitable to the elderly, while Roux-en-Y CJS reserves for young patients or those in good conditions.

Endoscopic management of postcholecystectomy biliary leak: When and how? A nationwide study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

ERCP is considered the first-line therapy for biliary duct leaks (BDLs). However, the optimal ERCP timing and endotherapy methods remain controversial. Our aim was to evaluate these factors as predictors of poor clinical outcomes after BDLs.

METHODS

Adults who underwent ERCP for BDLs after cholecystectomy were identified from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 2000 to 2014. ERCP was classified as emergent, urgent, and expectant if it was done within 1 day, after 2 to 3 days, or >3 days after BDLs, respectively. Endotherapy was classified into sphincterotomy, stent, or combination. Post-ERCP adverse events (AEs) were defined as requiring pressor infusion, endotracheal intubation, invasive monitoring, or hemodialysis. Early endotherapy failure was defined as the need for salvage surgical or radiology-percutaneous biliary intervention after ERCP.

RESULTS

A total of 1028 patients with a median age of 56 years were included. ERCP was done emergently (19%), urgently (30%), and expectantly (51%). Endotherapy procedures were sphincterotomy (24%), biliary stent (24%), and combination (52%). Post-ERCP AEs were 11%, 10%, and 9% for emergent, urgent, and expectant ERCP, respectively (P = .577). In-hospital mortality showed a U-shape trend of 5%, 0%, and 2% for emergent, urgent, and expectant ERCP, respectively (P < .001). Combination and stent monotherapy had lower failure rates of 3% and 4%, respectively as compared with sphincterotomy monotherapy with failure rate of 11% (P < .001). When multivariate analysis was used, both combination (odds ratio, .2; 95% confidence interval, .1-.5) and stent monotherapy (odds ratio, .4; 95% confidence interval, .2-.9) were less likely to fail as compared with sphincterotomy monotherapy. There were no statistically significant differences between combination therapy and stent monotherapy in the univariate and the multivariate analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Although limited by retrospective design and the possibility of selection bias, this analysis suggests that the timing of ERCP is not a significant predictor of post-ERCP AEs after BDLs. Furthermore, combination or stent monotherapy had lower failure rates as compared with sphincterotomy monotherapy.

Comparison of the Long-Term Outcomes of Endoscopic Papillary Large Balloon Dilation Alone versus Endoscopic Sphincterotomy for Removal of Bile Duct Stones

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation (EPLBD) alone is an alternative to endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) for treatment of common bile duct (CBD) stones. However, limited data exists regarding comparison of the long-term outcomes for these techniques. In this study, we compared the long-term outcomes after EST with those after EPLBD alone for removal of CBD stones.

METHODS

The records of patients with EST or EPLBD alone referred for CBD stones retrieval between June 2008 and July 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Complete stone clearance, ERCP-related adverse events, and late biliary complications during long-term follow-up were analyzed.

RESULTS

Basic patient characteristics were similar between the groups that underwent EST (n = 60) and EPLBD alone (n = 161). EPLBD compared with EST resulted in similar outcomes in terms of complete stone clearance (99.4% versus 100%, P = 0.54) and ERCP-related adverse events (6.8% versus 6.7%, P = 1.00). The mean duration of the follow-up was 74.5 months and 71.6 months who underwent EST and EPLBD alone, respectively (P = 0.42). Late biliary complications were occurred frequently in the EST group than in the EPLBD alone group (11 [18.6%] versus 16 [10.2%]), although the difference did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.11). Multivariate analysis showed that mechanical lithotripsy ([OR], 2.815; 95% CI, 1.148-6.902; P = 0.024) was significantly associated with late biliary complications.

CONCLUSION

As an alternative to EST, EPLBD has similar efficacy and safety for managing CBD stones. During long-term follow-up, patients who underwent EPLBD alone may have fewer late biliary complications compared with those after EST. In addition, mechanical lithotripsy may be an independent risk factor for late biliary complications.

Long-term outcomes of endoscopic papillary balloon dilation for removal of bile duct stones in Billroth II gastrectomy patients

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (EPBD) for common bile duct (CBD) stones removal in Billroth II gastrectomy patients is feasible. However, the long-term outcomes of this technique are not clear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the procedural and long-term outcomes of EPBD for removal of CBD stones in Billroth II gastrectomy patients.

METHODS

The records of patients with previous Billroth II gastrectomy referred for CBD stones removal with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) between July 1, 2008 and September 1, 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. The main outcomes of stone clearance, ERCP-related adverse events, and stone recurrence were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 83 patients with previous Billroth II gastrectomy underwent ERCP in our center were reviewed. Forty-nine consecutive patients with previous Billroth II gastrectomy referred to EPBD for removal of CBD stones underwent 59 ERCP procedures were enrolled in the end. The overall successful CBD stones clearance was achieved in 42 patients (85.7%). ERCP-related adverse events was in 3 ERCP procedures (5.1%). Severe complications, including perforation and bleeding, were not observed. Six of 49 patients (12.2%) had stone recurrence after a median period of 22.5 months (range 6-71 months) from the end of stone removal treatment. Female [odds ratio (OR) = 11.352; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.040-123.912; P = 0.046] and previous mechanical lithotripsy (OR = 13.423; 95% CI: 1.070-168.434; P = 0.044) were significantly associated with stone recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

At long-term follow-up, EPBD for removal of CBD stones appeared to be safe and effective in Billroth II gastrectomy patients. Female and previous mechanical lithotripsy may be risk factors for stone recurrence.

Restoration of common bile duct diameter within 2 weeks after endoscopic stone retraction is a preventive factor for stone recurrence

BACKGROUND

Little information is available about the relationship between restoration of common bile duct (CBD) diameter after endoscopic stone retraction and recurrence of CBD stones in elderly patients. The present study was to determine whether restoration of CBD diameter is a preventive factor for CBD stone recurrence in elderly patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

METHODS

From January 2006 to December 2010, 238 patients underwent the first and the second session of ERCP for the removal of CBD stones. Among them, 173 were over 65 years old. These patients were divided into recurrent group and non-recurrent group. Restoration of CBD diameter and patients' characteristics were compared.

RESULTS

There was no statistical difference in patients' characteristics, associated diseases, or ERCP-related complications between the two groups. Reduction of CBD diameter was significantly larger in the non-recurrent group (2.7 ± 1.7 mm) compared to that in the recurrent group (1.4 ± 2.3 mm, P = 0.002). The proportion of patients with restoration of CBD diameter were significantly lower in the recurrent group (6/42, 14.3%) compared with that in the non-recurrent group (67/131, 51.1%) (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

There is an inverse relationship between restoration of CBD diameter and CBD stone recurrence. Therefore, patients without restoration of CBD diameter within 2 weeks after endoscopic stone removal should be monitored more frequently.

A nationwide population-based study of common bile duct stone recurrence after endoscopic stone removal in Korea

BACKGROUND

There is no consensus whether patients who underwent endoscopic common bile duct (CBD) stone removal should be followed up periodically and whether patients with gallbladder (GB) stones should undergo cholecystectomy. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the recurrence rate of CBD stones and the difference in recurrence rate according to cholecystectomy.

METHODS

We conducted a population-based study using the National Health Insurance database. Patients diagnosed with CBD stones and with procedure registry of endoscopic stone removal were included. The primary outcome was the recurrence rate of CBD stones. The secondary outcome was the difference in recurrence rate of CBD stones according to cholecystectomy.

RESULTS

A total of 46,181 patients were identified. The mean follow-up was 4.2 years. The first CBD stone recurrence occurred in 5228 (11.3%) patients. The cumulative first recurrence rate was low. However, the second and third recurrence rates were 23.4 and 33.4%, respectively. The cumulative second and third recurrence rates were high and gradually increased with time. The recurrence rate in the non-cholecystectomy group was higher than that in the cholecystectomy group (p < 0.0001). The relative risk for CBD stone recurrence in the non-cholecystectomy group was higher in younger patients, with 3.198 in patients < 50 years, 2.371 in 50-59 years, 1.618 in 60-69 years, and 1.262 in ≥ 70 years (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Regular follow-up is not routinely recommended for patients with first-time endoscopic stone removal, but is recommended for patients with recurrent stones. Cholecystectomy is recommended for patients with GB stones who are younger than 70 years.

The added value of tomosynthesis in endoscopic retrograde cholangiography with radiography for the detection of choledocholithiasis

OBJECTIVE

The diagnostic performance of endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) with radiography is imperfect. We assessed the value of adding tomosynthesis to ERC with radiography for the detection of choledocholithiasis.

METHODS

This study included 102 consecutive patients (choledocholithiasis/non-choledocholithiasis, n = 57/45), who underwent both radiography and tomosynthesis for ERC in the same examination and were not diagnosed with malignancy. The reference standard for the existence of choledocholithiasis was confirmed by endoscopic stone extraction during ERC, intraoperative cholangiography, or follow up with magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (n = 78, 11, and 13, respectively). A gastroenterologist and a radiologist independently evaluated the radiographs and the combination of tomosynthesis and radiographic images in a blinded and randomised manner. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for combined tomosynthesis and radiography were significantly higher than those for radiography alone for both readers: Reader 1/Reader 2, 0.929/0.956 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.861-0.965/0.890-0.983) vs 0.803/0.769 (95% confidence interval, 0.707-0.873/0.668-0.846), respectively (p = 0.0047/< 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Adding tomosynthesis to radiography improved the diagnostic performance of ERC for detection of choledocholithiasis. Advances in knowledge: Adding tomosynthesis to radiography improves detection of choledocholithiasis and tomosynthesis images can be obtained easily after radiographs and repeated immediately.

Single-stage procedure for the treatment of cholecysto-choledocolithiasis: a surgical procedures review

While laparoscopic cholecystectomy is generally accepted as the treatment of choice for simple gallbladder stones, in cases in which common bile duct stones are also present, clinical and diagnostic elements, along with intraoperative findings, define the optimal means of treatment. All available options must be accessible to the surgical team which must necessarily be multidisciplinary and include a surgeon, an endoscopist, and a radiologist in order to identify the best option for a truly personalized surgery. This review describes the different techniques and approaches used based on distinctive recommendations and factors, according to the specific cases treated and the results achieved.

Risk of pyogenic liver abscess and endoscopic sphincterotomy: a population-based cohort study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the risk of pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) in patients receiving endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES).

SETTING

A population-based cohort study using data from Taiwans' National Health Insurance Research Database was conducted. Patients aged 20 or older who had undergone an ES were considered as the ES cohort. The dates for the first hospitalisation of the patients receiving ES were defined as the index dates.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients in the ES and non-ES cohorts were selected by 1:1 matching ratio based on a propensity score. A total of 8174 sex-matched, age-matched and index year-matched (1:1) pairs of patients receiving ES and 8174 patients without ES served as controls. Cox proportional hazards regression was employed to calculate the HRs and 95% CIs for the association between PLA and ES.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of PLA was significantly higher in the ES cohort than in the non-ES cohort (4.20 vs 0.94, respectively, per 1000 person-year) with the adjusted HR (aHR) 4.50 (95% CI 3.38 to 6.58) A stratified analysis during the follow-up years revealed that when the ES cohort was compared with the non-ES cohort, they displayed a higher risk of PLA during the first follow-up year (aHR 4.35, 95% CI 2.26 to 8.39) which continued significantly over the next 4-5 years of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients receiving ES are associated with having a higher risk of PLA.

Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society guidelines for endoscopic sphincterotomy

The Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society (JGES) has recently compiled guidelines for endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) using evidence-based methods. Content regarding actual clinical practice, including detailed endoscopic procedures, instruments, device types and usage, has already been published by the JGES postgraduate education committee in May 2015 and, thus, in these guidelines we avoided duplicating such content as much as possible. The guidelines do not address pancreatic sphincterotomy, endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (EPBD), and endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation (EPLBD). The guidelines for EPLBD are planned to be developed separately. The evidence level in this field is often low and, in many instances, strong recommendation has to be determined on the basis of expert consensus. At this point in time, the guidelines are divided into six items including indications, techniques, specific cases, adverse events, outcomes, and postoperative follow up.

Safety and efficacy of extending a previous endoscopic sphincterotomy for the treatment of retained or recurrent common bile duct stones

Background:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of extending a previous endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) in patients with retained or recurrent common bile duct (CBD) stones.

Methods:

Between 2001 and 2013, extension of a previous ES, for known or suspected CBD stones, was performed in 118 patients (m/f, 53/65) with a median age of 74 (range: 31-91) years (group A). During the same period, ES was performed in 1064 patients with suspected or known choledocholithiasis (group B). The efficacy and complications of the extension (group A) were analyzed and a comparison was made between groups regarding complications.

Results:

Bile duct cannulation was straightforward in all patients in group A, while it was considered difficult in 49% of patients in group B. Complete clearance was achieved in 76/97 patients (78%) with CBD stones, after a mean of 1.18 attempts per patient. Mechanical lithotripsy was required in 10% of patients. After extension, immediate bleeding occurred in 24 patients (20%), which stopped spontaneously in 9 (37%) and endoscopic hemostasis was required in the remainder. Complications were more frequent in group B (5.3% vs. 0.8%, P=0.031), but there was no significant difference for any individual complication. Immediate bleeding was more common in group B (29% vs. 20%, P=0.035), but there was no difference in clinical bleeding.

Conclusion:

Extension of a previous ES seems to be a simple, effective and safe technique, allowing stone clearance in nearly 80% of patients; it is thus recommended in patients with CBD stones after ES.

Current assessment of choledochoduodenostomy: 130 consecutive series

Introduction Cholelithiasis usually can be managed successfully by endoscopic sphincterotomy. Choledochoduodenostomy (CDD) is one of the surgical treatment options but its acceptance remains debated because of the risk of reflux cholangitis and sump syndrome. The aim of this study was to assess the current features and outcomes of patient undergoing CDD. Patients and methods We retrospectively analysed the surgical results of consecutive 130 patients treated by CDD between 1991 and 2013 and excluded five cases with a malignant disorder. Indications for surgery included endoscopic management where stones were difficult or failed to pass and primary common bile duct stones with choledochal dilatation. Incidences of reflux cholangitis, stone recurrence, pancreatitis or sump syndrome were investigated and the data between end-to-side and side-to-side CDD were compared. Results Reflux cholangitis and stone recurrence was 1.6% (2/125) and 0% (0/125) of cases by CDD. There is no therapeutic-related pancreatitis in CDD. Sump syndrome was not also observed in side-to-side CDD. Conclusions This study is a first comparative study between end-to-side and side-to-side CDD. The surgical outcomes for CDD treatment of choledocholithiasis were acceptable. The incidence of reflux cholangitis, stone recurrence, pancreatitis and sump syndrome was very low.

Predictors for bile duct stone recurrence after endoscopic extraction for naïve major duodenal papilla: A cohort study

Background

Predictors for bile duct stone recurrence after endoscopic stone extraction have not yet been clearly defined and a study investigating naïve major duodenal papilla is warranted because studies focusing only on naïve major duodenal papilla are rare. The aim of this study was to observe the long-term outcomes of endoscopic bile duct stone extraction for naïve major duodenal papilla and to assess the predictors for recurrence.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study that consisted of 384 patients with naïve papilla who underwent initial endoscopic bile duct stone extraction. Patients were followed up in outpatient department subsequent to complete stone clearance. Recurrence was defined as symptomatic repeated stone formation observed at least three months after the procedure. Stone recurrence, predictors of recurrence, and the recurrence rate, depending on each endoscopic treatment for major duodenal papilla, were examined.

Results

In this study, 34 patients (8.9%) developed stone recurrence. The median time to recurrence was 439 days. Periampullary diverticulum and multiple stones were strong predictors of bile duct stone recurrence (RR, 5.065; 95% CI, 2.435–10.539 and RR: 2.4401; 95% CI: 1.0946–5.4396, respectively). The above two factors were independent predictors of stone recurrence as per logistic regression analysis adjusted for confounders (Periampullary diverticulum: OR, 7.768; 95% CI, 3.27–18.471; multiple stones: OR, 4.144; 95% CI, 1.33–12.915). No recurrence was observed after endoscopic papillary large balloon dilatation (0/20), whereas recurrence was observed in 7 patients after endoscopic papillary balloon dilatation (7/45) and in 27 patients after endoscopic sphincterotomy (27/319). However, these differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.105).

Conclusions

We determined that the presence of periampullary diverticulum and multiple stones are strong predictors for recurrence after endoscopic stone extraction. Moreover, endoscopic papillary large balloon dilatation tended to be correlated with non-recurrence of bile duct stone.

The Role of Endoscopic Biliary Drainage without Sphincterotomy in Gallstone Patients with Cholangitis and Suspected Common Bile Duct Stones Not Detected by Cholangiogram or Intraductal Ultrasonography

Background/Aims

Treatment for cholangitis without common bile duct (CBD) stones has not been established in patients with gallstones. We investigated the usefulness of endoscopic biliary drainage (EBD) without endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) in patients diagnosed with gallstones and cholangitis without CBD stones by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and intraductal ultrasonography (IDUS).

Methods

EBD using 5F plastic stents without EST was performed prospectively in patients with gallstones and cholangitis if CBD stones were not diagnosed by ERCP and IDUS. After ERCP, all patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The primary outcomes were clinical and technical success. The secondary outcomes were recurrence rate of biliary events and procedure-related adverse events.

Results

Among 187 patients with gallstones and cholangitis, 27 patients without CBD stones according to ERCP and IDUS received EBD using 5F plastic stents without EST. The stents were maintained in all patients until laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and recurrence of cholangitis was not observed. After cholecystectomy, the stents were removed spontaneously in 12 patients and endoscopically in 15 patients. Recurrence of CBD stones was not detected during the follow-up period (median, 421 days).

Conclusions

EBD using 5F plastic stents without EST may be safe and effective for the management of cholangitis accompanied by gallstones in patients without CBD stones according to ERCP and IDUS.

Impact of endoscopic papillary large-balloon dilation on sphincter of Oddi function: a prospective randomized study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (≤8 mm in diameter) preserves sphincter of Oddi (SO) function. However, it is still unknown whether papillary function is preserved after endoscopic papillary large-balloon dilation (EPLBD, ≥12 mm in diameter). We investigated SO function after EPLBD with or without endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) by endoscopic manometry, up to 1 year after the procedure.

METHODS

This was a prospective randomized study involving patients with bile duct stones ≥12 mm. Eighty-six patients who met the inclusion criteria were assigned randomly to either EPLBD alone or EST with EPLBD, and endoscopic manometric studies were performed. The primary outcome was comparison of the manometric data between the 2 groups and within each group both 1 week and 1 year after the procedure.

RESULTS

One week after EPLBD alone and EST with EPLBD, the basal pressure of SO dropped from 30.4 (8.2) to 6.4 (8.4) mm Hg (P < .001) and 29.5 (18.9) to 2.9 (3.6) mm Hg (P < .001), respectively. SO function was not recovered at 1 year; the manometric measurements were similar to those taken at the 1-week time point in both groups. Similar outcomes were obtained in patients with EPLBD alone compared with those with EST and EPLBD, including the initial stone clearance rate (95.2% vs 97.7%, P = .612), the frequency of mechanical lithotripsy (21.4% vs 13.6%), and overall adverse events (11.9% vs 13.6%, P = 1.0) including the rate of pancreatitis after the procedure (7.1% vs 11.4%, P = .714). During an overall median follow-up of 17.8 months, the recurrence rate of bile duct stones was 16.7% in patients who underwent EPLBD alone and 15.9% in patients who underwent EST with EPLBD (P = .924).

CONCLUSIONS

Both EPLBD alone and EST + EPLBD resulted in persistent and comparable loss of SO function after 1 year. EPLBD alone has similar efficacy and safety to those of EST with EPLBD with respect to removal of large stones.

A review of treatment options for bile duct stones

Approximately 10-15% of bile duct stones cannot be treated using conventional stone removal techniques. For difficult common bile duct stones (CBDS), various endoscopic techniques have been developed. This review covers technical tips and endoscopic treatments including Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), particularly under Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guidance. Areas covered: Literatures about endoscopic treatment for bile duct stone were searched in Pub Med. As novel methods, EUS-guided approaches have also been reported, although long-term results and prospective evaluation are not yet sufficient. Large stones may need fragmentation prior to removal, to prevent stone impaction. To perform fragmentation, mechanical lithotripsy, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or laser lithotripsy techniques are available. Expert commentary: Despite the fact that most bile duct stones can be treated using endoscopic techniques, endoscopists should remind to be able to select the temporary biliary stenting or percutaneous transhepatic cholangiodrainage as an option.

Late Complications After Endoscopic Sphincterotomy

The introduction of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) has changed the treatment of choledocholithiasis. An increasing number of young patients are requiring ES, and this raises concern regarding any potential long-term complications arising from irreversibly altering the anatomy of the sphincter of Oddi. In particular, concern has been raised regarding the risk of late cholangiocarcioma. A review was performed evaluating the relationship between ES for benign disease and the subsequent development of late complications, including biliary tract malignancy, the formation of primary duct stones, and recurring cholangitis. A systematic review of articles published between 1970 and 2013 was undertaken. Current evidence shows that ES is a safe and effective treatment for common bile duct stones. The long-term risk of subsequent cholangiocarcinoma has not been convincingly proven although in many of these studies the follow-up period was inadequate. There does appear to be an associated increased incidence of cholangiocarcinomas following sphincterotomy although this is not proven to be causative. If there is an increased risk of cholangiocarcinoma following ES, it is likely to be small in western populations. However, until longer follow-up studies are published, it may be prudent to avoid ES in the very young.

Endoscopic sphincterotomy and risk of cholangiocarcinoma: a population-based cohort study in Finland and Sweden

Background and study aims: Elevated long-term risk of cholangiocarcinoma is reported after endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES), but in a previous study we found a trend towards a decreased risk. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association in a larger cohort with a longer follow-up. Patients and methods: Data concerning all patients having had an inpatient endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) were collected from the hospital discharge registries of Finland and Sweden. Incident cases of malignancy were identified through linkage to the nationwide Cancer Registries. Patients with a diagnosis of malignancy, before or within 2 years of the ERCP, were excluded. The cohorts were followed until a diagnosis of malignancy, death or emigration, or end of follow-up (end of 2010). The relative risk of malignancy was calculated as standardized incidence ratio (SIR) compared with the general population, inherently adjusting for age, gender, and calendar year of follow-up. Results: A total of 69 925 patients undergoing ERCP from 1976 through 2008 were included in the pooled cohort. ES was performed in 40 193 subjects. The risk of malignancy was elevated in the total cohort (SIR = 2.3; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 2.1 - 2.5) irrespective of whether ES was performed or not. The SIRs diminished with duration of follow-up. Conclusions: We found an elevated risk of malignancy both in the bile ducts alone and in the bile ducts, liver or pancreas together, after ERCP. The risk was the same, regardless of whether ES had been performed or not, so ES was unlikely to be the cause, and a common carcinogenic exposure previous to the ERCP procedure, possibly ductal gallstone disease, was more likely.

Cholecystectomy After Endoscopic Sphincterotomy for Common Bile Duct Stones: Is Surgery Necessary?

It has been more than 30 years since the introduction of endoscopic sphincterotomy for the management of choledocholithiasis. Once introduced, this endoscopic intervention subsequently enabled clinicians to witness the natural history of leaving the gallbladder in situ once the common duct calculi were removed. Because many people were free of symptoms once the common bile duct was cleared of stones, patients and physicians alike soon questioned whether it was necessary to remove the gallbladder at all. Despite more than two decades of clinical research and numerous published reports, the answer to this question remains elusive. Similarly, the management algorithm for choledocholithiasis in patients with an intact gallbladder remains controversial. We review the available key data regarding this question. Importantly, there are only three prospective, randomized trials that have examined the need for cholecystectomy after endoscopic sphincterotomy, with case studies constituting most of the published reports. Consequently, the literature on this topic remains inconclusive, weakened by its retrospective approach, considerable variability between the patients studied, inconsistent inclusion and exclusion criteria, and frequently poor patient follow-up. Nonetheless, the preponderance of data favor removing the gallbladder after endoscopically clearing the common bile duct of gallstones because an estimated 25% of patients will experience recurrent symptoms within a 2-year follow up period. Recognizing the existence of various mitigating clinical factors, we advocate adopting a selective wait-and-see approach for high-risk patients, especially those with a life expectancy of less than 2 years or severely debilitating comorbidities.

Randomized clinical trial of intraoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography versus laparoscopic bile duct exploration in patients with choledocholithiasis

BACKGROUND

Various minimally invasive approaches exist for the management of choledocholithiasis at the time of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The aim of this study was to compare endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with laparoscopic bile duct exploration (LBDE) and test the hypothesis that intraoperative ERCP is no different to LBDE in terms of rate of bile duct clearance or retained stones.

METHODS

Eligible patients with choledocholithiasis undergoing emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomized to intraoperative ERCP or LBDE in a 1 : 1 ratio. The primary outcomes were rates of bile duct clearance and retained stones. Secondary outcomes were postprocedure complication rate, mortality rate, postoperative length of hospital stay, conversion to open surgery rate, procedural time and total duration of surgery.

RESULTS

Some 104 patients were randomized, and 52 patients in each group were included in an intention-to-treat analysis. Duct clearance rates were 87 per cent for patients who had intraoperative ERCP and 69 per cent for those in the LBDE group (P = 0·057). The rate of retained stones was lower in the ERCP group than in the LBDE group: 15 versus 42 per cent respectively (P = 0·004). Median postoperative length of stay was shorter with ERCP (2 days versus 3 days for LBDE; P = 0·015).

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative ERCP is more effective than LBDE in terms of minimizing the rate of retained stones in patients with choledocholithiasis undergoing emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12613000761763 (http://www.anzctr.org.au/).

Comparison of endoscopic papillary balloon dilatation and endoscopic sphincterotomy for bile duct stones

Endoscopic treatment for bile duct stones is low-invasive and currently considered as the first choice of the treatment. For the treatment of bile duct stones, papillary treatment is necessary, and the treatments used at the time are broadly classified into two types; endoscopic papillary balloon dilatation where bile duct closing part is dilated with a balloon and endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) where bile duct closing part is incised. Both procedures have advantages and disadvantages. Golden standard is EST, however, there are patients with difficulty for EST, thus we must select the procedure based on understanding of the characteristics of the procedure, and patient backgrounds.

Cholecystectomy for Prevention of Recurrence after Endoscopic Clearance of Bile Duct Stones in Korea

PURPOSE

Cholecystectomy in patients with an intact gallbladder after endoscopic removal of stones from the common bile duct (CBD) remains controversial. We conducted a case-control study to determine the risk of recurrent CBD stones and the benefit of cholecystectomy for prevention of recurrence after endoscopic removal of stones from the CBD in Korean patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 317 patients who underwent endoscopic CBD stone extraction between 2006 and 2012 were included. Possible risk factors for the recurrence of CBD stones including previous cholecystectomy history, bile duct diameter, stone size, number of stones, stone composition, and the presence of a periampullary diverticulum were analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean duration of follow-up after CBD stone extraction was 25.4±22.0 months. A CBD diameter of 15 mm or larger [odds ratio (OR), 1.930; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.098 to 3.391; p=0.022] and the presence of a periampullary diverticulum (OR, 1.859; 95% CI, 1.014 to 3.408; p=0.045) were independent predictive factors for CBD stone recurrence. Seventeen patients (26.6%) in the recurrence group underwent elective cholecystectomy soon after endoscopic extraction of CBD stones, compared to 88 (34.8%) in the non-recurrence group; the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.212).

CONCLUSION

A CBD diameter of 15 mm or larger and the presence of a periampullary diverticulum were found to be potential predictive factors for recurrence after endoscopic extraction of CBD stones. Elective cholecystectomy after clearance of CBD stones did not reduce the incidence of recurrent CBD stones in Korean patients.

Mid-term outcome of endoscopic sphincterotomy combined with large balloon dilation

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) combined with large balloon dilation (ESLBD) can be useful for extracting large and multiple bile duct stones. Although there are many studies on the feasibility and short-term outcome, there are few reports about mid- to long-term outcome after ESLBD. The aim of our study is to prospectively evaluate the mid-term outcome of ESLBD.

METHODS

One hundred eighty-three patients who underwent ESLBD between November 2006 and May 2012 were included. The patients were followed up periodically after the procedure until April 2013. Papillary dilation was performed at the time of initial ES or prior ES. Early and late adverse events and stone recurrence were evaluated in this study.

RESULTS

The patients' mean age was 76.6 ± 10.7 years. Surgically altered anatomy was present: Billroth I gastrectomy (2), Billroth II gastrectomy (13), and gastrectomy with Roux-en Y reconstruction (18). Seventy-eight (42.6%) patients had periampullary diverticulum. Prior ES had been performed in 40 (21.9%) patients. The mean follow-up period was 43.5 ± 19.7 months (range 11-78). Eight (4.4%) patients had stone recurrence. There was rare stone recurrence after initial ESLBD treatment and native gastrointestinal anatomy. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that prior ES and previous history of stone recurrence were predictive of stone recurrence (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

At mid-term outcome, ESLBD is associated with a low rate of recurrent bile duct stones, although long-term follow up is needed.

Endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation for treatment of large bile duct stones does not increase the risk of post-procedure pancreatitis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) and endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation (EPLBD) are well-known procedures for the treatment of common duct stones. There was no statistically significant difference in post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis rates between ES and EPLBD in most studies. The aims of this study were to evaluate whether EPLBD increases the risk of post-ERCP pancreatitis and to identify the risk factors influencing post-ERCP pancreatitis.

METHODS

A review of 341 patients who underwent ERCP for treatment of common duct stones larger than 1 cm in diameter from January 2006 to December 2011 was conducted retrospectively. Patients were divided into three groups: ES group (n = 207), EPLBD + ES group (n = 99), and EPLBD with previous history of ES group (n = 35).

RESULTS

Of 341 patients, overall incidence of post-ERCP pancreatitis was 2.6% (n = 9). Incidence of post-ERCP pancreatitis was 3.4, 2.0, and 0% in the ES group, EPLBD + ES group, and EPLBD with previous history of ES group, respectively. No significant difference in the incidence of post-ERCP pancreatitis was observed among the three groups (p = 0.47). Endoscopic biliary stenting was the independent risk factor for pancreatitis according to univariate (p = 0.046) and multivariate analyses (p = 0.036, OR 4.211, 95% CI 1.095-16.199). Age, sex, stone size, mechanical lithotripsy, common bile duct diameter, balloon size, and duration of balloon dilation were not significantly related to post-ERCP pancreatitis.

CONCLUSION

EPLBD with antecedent limited ES or previous ES state does not increase the risk of post-ERCP pancreatitis in patients with large bile duct stones. Endoscopic biliary stenting seems to be the independent risk factor of post-ERCP pancreatitis.