Prevalence and Risk Factors of Choledocholithiasis in Omani Patients With Sickle Cell Disease Undergoing Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: A Retrospective Analysis.

Background Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a prevalent genetic disorder in the Middle East, particularly in Oman, leading to significant morbidity. It is caused by a mutation in the gene encoding hemoglobin (Hb) molecules, resulting in the formation and polymerization of hemoglobin S (HbS), which subsequently leads to hemolysis. Chronic hemolysis in SCD patients often results in various complications, including increased bilirubin levels in the gallbladder and the formation of pigmented biliary stones, which may obstruct the biliary tract system.