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RACS ASC 2026
Comparative outcomes between 1-stage and 2-stage managements for choledocholithiasis
Verbal Presentation

Verbal Presentation

11:40 am

02 May 2026

Meeting Room M1

Research Papers

Disciplines

General Surgery

Presentation Description

Institution: Sunshine Coast University Hospital - QLD, Australia

Background: Choledocholithiasis is a common presentation of gallstone disease. Previous studies have demonstrated that both one-stage laparoscopic cholecystectomy + common duct exploration (LC+LCBDE) or two-stage laparoscopic cholecystectomy + Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (LC + ERCP) are safe management strategies. This study aims to compare and contrast the treatment approaches used for choledocholithiasis, including LC+ERCP, LC+LCBDE, or LC+LCBDE + ERCP. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted of patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital and Health Services from 1 January 2022 to 1 January 2025. Patients were categorised into three groups: LC + ERCP, LC + LCBDE, and LC+LCBDE+ERCP. Demographic, pre- and post-operative biochemical markers, imaging, and surgical outcomes were collected and compared between groups. Results: A total of 1760 laparoscopic cholecystectomies were performed. Of these, 227 patients (12.9%) required management for choledocholithiasis, with 101 patients undergoing bile duct exploration as emergency cases under ASU (Acute Surgical Unit). This ASU model is staffed on a rotational basis by General surgeons of all sub-specialities. 125 (55%) patients underwent a single-stage LC+ LCBDE, whereas 87 (38.3%) patients underwent LC+ERCP, and only 14 (6.2%) required both LTCBDE + ERCP. Stone clearance was achieved in 100% of patients managed with LC+ERCP and in 91.3% of patients in the single-stage LC+LCBDE group. There were no significant differences in surgical outcomes or post-operative complications between groups. Conclusion: These findings support the use of single-stage LC+ LCBDE as a safe and effective approach for choledocholithiasis and that these results can be achieved by general surgeons of all sub-specialities.
Presenters
Authors
Authors

Dr Xiaohui Lin - , Dr Olivia Mcneil - , Dr Erick Chan - , Dr Scott Cooper - , Dr Zach Somy - , Mr Zawad Aziz - , Dr Michelle Chiam -