Biliary stones extraction

Abstract

Stones extraction is challenging even for small stones since many factors need to be considered: anatomy of the bile ducts, stone size and number, choice of the device (balloon vs. basket), and technical details (handling of the devices, axis, traction). Endoscopic papillary large balloon dilatation changed the approach to biliary stones making endoscopic extraction more effective, reducing the need for mechanical lithotripsy which is considered also dangerous and technically demanding. Cholangioscopy-assisted lithotripsy is an advanced technique needed in case of failed extraction using other conventional methods.