Semin intervent Radiol 2016; 33(04): 268-276
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1592329
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Choledocholithiasis: Evaluation, Treatment, and Outcomes

Christopher Molvar
1   Department of Radiology, Section of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois
,
Bryan Glaenzer
1   Department of Radiology, Section of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
31 October 2016 (online)

Abstract

Choledocholithiasis occurs in up to approximately 20% of patients with cholelithiasis. A majority of stones form in the gallbladder and then pass into the common bile duct, where they generate symptoms, due to biliary obstruction. Confirmatory diagnosis of choledocholithiasis is made with advanced imaging, including magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Treatment varies locally; however, ERCP with sphincterotomy is most commonly employed with a high degree of success. Difficult anatomy and difficult stone burden require advanced surgical, endoscopic, and percutaneous techniques to extract or expel biliary stones. Knowledge of these treatment strategies will optimize outcomes.

 
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