Abstract

In retrieving bile duct stones, full-endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) with endoscopic mechanical lithotripsy (EML) is considered as a traditional method, and balloon dilation of the papillary sphincter has also been used. Recent studies have reported that mid-EST and endoscopic papillary large balloon dilatation (EPLBD) was as useful as full-EST with EML, without serious complications. In patients with coagulopathy, such as end-stage renal disease, even a small incision of the sphincter could cause profuse bleeding. In such patients, balloon dilation of the sphincter is a preferred technique over EST. A prior Billroth-II operation renders EST more difficult and increases the risk of a complication. In these patients, the use of EPBD is also preferred as well. We report a case of successfully retrieving large bile duct stones by EPLBD without EST, in a patient who had a prior Billroth-II operation, and is undergoing hemodialysis. The patient is free of complications, such as bleeding or acute pancreatitis. (Korean J Gastrointest Endosc 2007;35:451-455)

• Keywords: Endoscopic papillary large balloon dilatation, Mid-endoscopic sphincterotomy, Hemodialysis, Billroth-II