Background: The optimal management of patients with concurrent gallbladder and common bile duct (CBD) stones remains a topic of debate, especially in resource-limited settings. Single-stage laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) combined with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) under the same anesthesia has the potential to lower operative risks, reduce hospital stay, and cut healthcare costs. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of 374 consecutive patients who underwent single-stage LC + ERCP between January 2018 and December 2024 at 115 People's Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Demographic data, perioperative outcomes, operative time, complication rates, and postoperative recovery were analyzed. Results: The mean age was 60 ± 15 years; 59% were female. The mean total operative time was 123 ± 33 minutes, and the average postoperative hospital stay was 2 ± 1 days. Successful CBD stone clearance was achieved in 100% of patients, with 16% requiring temporary biliary stent placement. Postoperative complications occurred in 4% of patients, all mild pancreatitis, with no bile leakage, bleeding, or mortality. ERCP time >45 minutes, CBD diameter <10 mm, and previous ERCP were significantly associated with post-ERCP pancreatitis. Conclusion: Single-stage LC + ERCP for concurrent gallbladder and CBD stones is safe, effective, and feasible in a tertiary Vietnamese hospital setting. The procedure achieved high success and low complication rates, with shortened hospital stay and minimal morbidity.
Nguyen et al. (2026) studied this question.