RESUMEN
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM: We previously reported on a plastic stent that was coated with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and sodium cholate, which dissolved common bile duct (CBD) stones ex vivo. The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of such stents on biliary stones in a live porcine model. METHODS: Stents without coating or with degradable membranes containing 0â% or 50â% EDTA and sodium cholate were inserted together with human CBD stones into the porcine CBD. Serum laboratory variables, histological examinations of the bile duct, and the weight change in stones were compared during and after stent placement for 6 months. RESULTS: A total of 16 pigs were included (5 no coating, 5 0â% coating, 6 50â% coating). Biliary stones showed decreased weight in all groups; however, stones in the group with 50â% coated stents showed a greater reduction in weight compared with the no coating and the 0â% coating groups (269â±â66âmg vs. 179â±â51âmg [Pâ=â0.09]; 269â±â66âmg vs. 156â±â26âmg [Pâ=â0.01], respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The plastic stent coated with 50â% agent enhanced CBD stone dissolution in vivo and may be a promising tool for patients with difficult biliary stones.