Laparoscopic hepatectomy combined with endoscopic papillary balloon dilation for complex bile duct stones

Background We evaluated the feasibility and efficacy of laparoscopic hepatectomy (LH) combined with endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (EPBD) for removing intra‐ and extrahepatic bile duct stones. Methods A total of 26 patients with intra‐ and extrahepatic bile duct stones underwent LH and EPBD. Selective hemi‐hepatic vascular occlusion was used to complete the LH. EPBD was performed under the guidance of a guidewire, and stones were removed with a stone basket or balloon. Results A one‐stage LH with EPBD lithotomy was successfully performed in 26 cases. No residual bile duct stones, intestinal or bile duct perforations were found. In addition, no severe post‐operative bleeding, severe pancreatitis or mortality occurred. Post‐operative hyperamylasemia was observed in five cases and bile leakage in one case. Post‐operative hospital stays lasted 7–11 days. Conclusion LH combined with EPBD applied to intra‐ and extrahepatic bile duct stones was feasible, effective and safe, resulting in rapid recovery and few post‐operative complications.