Comparison between endoscopic papillary balloon dilatation and endoscopic sphincterotomy for the treatment of common bile duct stones.

Background: This study was designed to evaluate the therapeutic outcome and early postoperative complications, especially pancreatitis, of endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (EPBD) and endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) in patients with common bile duct stones in our department.

Methods: One hundred eighty patients with common bile duct stones were randomized to undergo EPBD or EST. An 8-mm dilatation balloon was used for EPBD.