retained stone(s)
Last reviewed 01/2018
Retained gallstones may occur as a complication of biliary surgery. These may be demonstrated by post-operative T-tube cholangiography.
Alternatives in management include:
- endoscopic sphincterotomy: the use of ERCP and endoscopic sphincterotomy means that stones in the common bile duct often may be retrieved without need for operation. This is most satisfactory option.
- irrigation of the T-tube in order to flush the stone into the duodenum
- removal of stones via a mature 'fistulous track' that has developed as a result of the T-tube being left for about 6 weeks with grasping forceps or a Dormia basket.
- re-operation