Common bile duct stones. Detection and removal with endoscopic techniques.

Common bile duct stones are frequently discovered after cholecystectomy or are the first sign of biliary tract disease. Because detection usually requires cholangiography and reoperation is technically difficult, risky, and thus undesirable, nonsurgical methods of identifying and removing the stones have evolved. Among these, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with endoscopic retrograde sphincterotomy and stone extraction is the method of choice after cholecystectomy. As newer methods of dealing with biliary disease evolve and alter the spectrum of complications, ERCP will remain an essential diagnostic and management tool.