A Randomized Trial Comparing the Use of Endobiliary Stent and T-Tube for Biliary Decompression After Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration

PURPOSE: To compare the use of a biliary stent with T-tube for biliary decompression after laparoscopic common bile duct (CBD) exploration. METHODS: Between September 2004 and March 2008, 60 patients undergoing laparoscopic CBD exploration for CBD stones were randomized to choledochotomy closure over either a biliary stent or a T-tube after CBD clearance. Patients at high risk for surgery and unremitting cholangitis requiring preoperative endoscopic biliary drainage were excluded. RESULTS: There were 29 and 31 patients in the T-tube and stenting groups, respectively. The 2 groups were comparable with respect to their demographic profile and disease characteristics. Patients in the stent group had a significantly shorter operative time and postoperative stay with an earlier return to normal activity (P<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Choledochotomy closure over a stent results in a shorter postoperative stay and an earlier return to normal activity compared with closure over a T-tube without any increase in morbidity.