Prevention of biliary leaks.

INTRODUCTION

Since the introduction of laparoscopic cholecystectomy more than two decades ago, the incidence of bile duct injury has remained greater than that established during the era of open cholecystectomy.

DISCUSSION

This article reviews the common causes of bile duct injury during laparoscopic cholecystectomy and makes recommendations that should help prevent these serious injuries from occurring.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of bile duct injury during laparoscopic cholecystectomy, although greater than during open cholecystectomy, can be minimized using specific operative strategies and dissection principles.