Timing of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in acute cholecystitis.

Background: Timing of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in acute cholecystitis (AC) is still debated.

Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of timing on operative results; from the first appearance of symptoms to the operation.

Methods: The study included 57 sequential patients operated laparoscopically for AC.

Mechanical lithotripsy and/or stenting in management of difficult common bile duct stones.

Background: Mechanical lithotripsy and/or stent insertion is the alternative therapeutic approach in difficult endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) case. This study was designed to investigate the appropriate treatment for extraction of bile duct stones in difficult cases of ERCP.

Methods: Between 2000 and 2008, 744 ERCP procedures were performed in 592 patients with choledocholithiasis in our endoscopy unit.

Endoscopic stenting for selected cases of biliary fistula after hepatic hydatid surgery.

Background: Biliary fistula develops in 4%-28% of patients after hepatic hydatid disease (HHD) surgery. Although endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) are helpful in the treatment of this complication, persistent fistulas may occur. We therefore conducted a study to evaluate the efficacy of endoscopic biliary stenting in the treatment of biliary fistulas after HHD.