ENDOSCOPIC TREATMENT OF BILIARY LEAKAGE AFTER LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is an effective and safe treatment for un complicated symptomatic cholelithiasis. However, biliary tract injury may be more common with this procedure than with open cholecystectomy. We have encountered 17 patients with a biliary leak among 465 patient s undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the diagnosis being establi shed by clinical and radiographic parameters. The most common site of leakage was the cystic duct stump. Patients underwent endoscopic sphin cterotomy and biliary stent placement, with an overall success rate of 96 %. No morbidity or mortality related to the endoscopic procedures was encountered. We conclude that biliary leakage after laparoscopic c holecystectomy is uncommon. When it occurs, it can be treated safely a nd efficaciously by endoscopic means.