OBJECTIVE

To research the features of endoscopic treatment of choledocholithiasis and biliary strictures in patients with surgically altered anatomy of the upper gastrointestinal tract.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A single-center retrospective study included 19 consecutive patients. Early outcomes including: the success of intubation of the afferent limb, the success of selective cannulation of the biliary ducts, the effectiveness of the performed operations; the frequency of complications; factors related to these indicators.

RESULTS

3 (15.7%) patients failed intubation of the afferent limb. In 16 (84.2%) patients, endoscopic treatment was an effective final treatment method — regression of obstructive jaundice was achieved and cholangitis was stopped. 9 (69.2%) of 13 patients with choledocholithiasis, complete one-stage stone extraction was performed; 4 (30.8%) patients staged treatment was performed, during which 3 patients underwent cholangioscopy procedure with lithotripsy (laser and electrohydraulic). 3 patients with benign strictures underwent staged endoscopic treatment — multiple procedures to upsize and number of stents. In 1 (6.3%) 85-year-old patient with choledocholithiasis complicated by cholangitis and abscesses, surgery and complex therapy did not avoid a fatal outcome. There were no other complications.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic treatment of choledocholithiasis and biliary strictures in patients with surgically altered anatomy is a more difficult task. In a significant proportion of patients endoscopic treatment is effective. The success of the endoscopic treatment is due to the equipment of the hospital and the skills of physicians. It may be advisable to concentrate this technique in a centres with skill and expertise.