Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration for Choledocholithiasis During a Pregnancy: a Case Report

Abstract

SummaryIn population studies, gallstones are found in 6.5% to 8.4% of nulliparous women, and in 18.4% to 19.3% of women with two to three or more pregnancies (7). Approximately 1 in 500 to 1 in 635 women will require non-obstetrical abdominal surgery during their pregnancies. Pregnancy induced physiological hormonal changes are associated with a decrease of gallbladder motility and increased cholesterol saturation of bile, leading to biliary stone formation (12,6,8). Surgical approach nowadays is the method of choice in the management of symptomatic gallstone disease during pregnancy, preferably if possible surgery should be postponed to second trimester (7,8).Preoperative radiologic imaging using magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography is the golden standard for patients with suspected choledocholithiasis, however, its application during pregnancy is limited (9). Therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) may be used before, during or after laparoscopic cholecystectomy when it is indicated, but unfortunately, its application during pregnancy is associated with considerable number of complications concerning mother and fetus. Alternative approach has been developed and recommended for patients with the common bile duct (CBD) stones providing laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE). Intraoperative cholangiography or intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) are the methods currently used for detection of the CBD stones during laparoscopic cholecystectomy, however, IOUS can be considered as the method of choice during pregnancy (3).IOUS is a dynamic imaging modality that provides interactive and timely information during surgical procedures. Because the transducer is in direct contact with the organ being examined, high-resolution images can be obtained that are not degraded by air, bone, or overlying soft tissue (1).