Usefulness of Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangioscopic Lithotomy for Removal of Difficult Common Bile Duct Stones

Abstract Background/Aims: Approximately 5% to 10% of common bile duct (CBD) stones are difficult to remove by conventional endoscopic methods. Percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopic lithotomy (PTCSL) can be an alternative method for this condition, but is not well established yet. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of PTCSL for removal of difficult CBD stones. Methods: This study is a retrospective review of 34 consecutive patients who underwent unsuccessful removal of CBD stones using conventional