J.Jpn. Surg. Soc.. 98(8): 685-690, 1997

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Feature topic

SURGERY FOR CHOLELITHIASIS IN CIRRHOTIC PATIENTS

Although biliary tract surgery for cholelithiasis is performed frequently, cirrhotic patients require special cosideration. The prevalence of postoperative severe complications, such as hepatic failure and biliary peritonitis caused by insufficient fistula formation after removal of the T-tube, is higher than non-cirrhotic patients.
We suggest that definitive surgery can be carried out safely, in Child’s A and B cirrhotic patients, either electively or as an emergency. However, a more conservative approach is advisable in Child’s C patients with acute conditions and definitive surgery is recommended as an elective procedure after liver function has improved. And for the treatment of choledocholithiasis in patients with severe cirrhosis, avoiding surgical intervention through the use of such techniques as endoscopic papillotomy is recommended whenever possible.

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