ABSTRACT
Choledochal cysts are cystic dilatation of the common bile duct managed by excision and hepatico-intestinal reconstruction. The gold standard after choledochal cyst excision is reconstruction using the jejunum. With the advent of laparoscopy the pendulum has changed toward hepaticoduodenostomy reconstruction. We review the classification, diagnosis and recent management of choledochal cyst.
Subject(s)
Choledochal Cyst/surgery , Duodenostomy/methods , Jejunostomy/methods , Choledochal Cyst/diagnosis , Choledochal Cyst/pathology , Humans , Laparoscopy/methodsABSTRACT
Among the techniques for dealing with common bile stones, choledochoduodenostomy (CDS) represents a useful alternative. This operation is indicated mainly in patients with recurrent stones, giant stones, or concomitant common bile stricture and duct stones. At the present time most of the patients undergoing CDS have been already undergone endoscopic retrograde cholangiography or ultrasonography to study the common bile duct and the cause of symptoms. The common bile duct diameter is of paramount importance when determining the feasibility of performing a CDS, the critical size being 1.2 cm. The most common operation is a side-to-side anastomosis employing absorbable sutures. Stomal patency is the most important factor for preventing classic complications such as cholangitis and sump syndrome. These complications are rare, being observed in only 5% of the patients. Long-term results of the operation show that it is a safe procedure that should be considered a good option in selected patients with choledocholithiasis.