Remnant gall bladder and cystic duct stump stone after cholecystectomy: tertiary multicenter experience

Abstract

Background: There is no doubt that cholecystectomy relieves pre-surgical symptoms of gallbladder (GB) disease. The persistence of symptoms mainly biliary pain was recorded in 10 - 20% of cases, with variety of causes. Residual GB/cystic duct stump stone is one of the most important un-expected cause. The present study was conducted to study and evaluate those patients, with their surgical treatment.Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on 27 cases with residual GB/cystic duct stump stone. The diagnosis was guided by ultrasound and magnetic resonance cholangio-pancreatography. All cases were managed by using completion cholecystectomy - either open or laparoscopic. All preoperative, operative, and postoperative data were collected.Results: Preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography and papillotomy were required in 13 patients whom were presented with obstructive jaundice. Open completion cholecystectomy techniques were done in the majority of cases (21 patients) while laparoscopic approach was feasible in only 6 cases with one conversion (1/6). The mean operative time was (89.57 ± 12.05 and 118.16 ± 12.6 min), and the mean blood loss was (195.5 ± 19.22 and 187.5 ± 23.61 ml) respectively. Intra-operative minor biliary injury occurred in two cases and repaired instantaneously. The mean hospital stay was (4.76 ± 2.81 and 2.33 ± 1.32 days) respectively. All patients were reported to be symptom-free at the follow-up after surgical treatment.Conclusions: Residual GB/cystic duct stump stone is a preventable and correctable cause of post-cholecystectomy complaint. Completion cholecystectomy is a proven treatment of choice to relieve symptoms and avoid complications; furthermore, it can be carried out laparoscopically with experienced team and facilities in spite of difficulties.