Review of the Endoscopic, Surgical and Radiological Techniques of Treating Choledocholithiasis in Bariatric Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Patients and Proposed Management Algorithm.

Abstract

Choledocholithiasis in post-surgical bariatric Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patients presents a significant challenge secondary to altered anatomy. We aim to review the existing management options including either endoscopic, surgical, percutaneous or hybrid means. Current literature suggests reasonably successful cannulation rates for single- or double-balloon ERCPranging from 50 to 70% and 63-83%, respectively. The hybrid technique of laparoscopic transgastric ERCP has gained popularity with successrates ranging from 90 to 100%. Conventional laparoscopic techniques like transcystic duct and transcholedochalbile duct exploration are still useful options (i.e. high success rates of 81-100% and 83-96%, respectively). The role of percutaneous transhepatic choledochography remains limited although it can help with rapid bile duct decompression. If feasible, treatment pathways should progress from least to more invasive options as required.