New retraction technique to allow better visualization of Calot's triangle during laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Background: Bile duct injuries during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) are thought to occur because surgeons tend to confuse the common bile duct (CBD) with the cystic duct. Among reasons for this misidentification, the difference in the way the operating field is exposed in LC compared to open cholecystectomy should be noticed. Using Dr. Reddick's technique, which is commonly practiced, the upward and the lateral traction of the gallbladder results in a narrower Calot's triangle and angulation of the CBD. These anatomical distortions are thought to contribute to ductal injuries during LC. Methods: We propose a new method to expose Calot's triangle during LC. The principle of this technique is to expose the hepatic hilus by retracting the caudal surfaces of the quadrate and lateral lobes of the liver using an atraumatic curved instrument. Results: The advantages of this technique are that one gains wide exposure of the hepatic hilus, leaves Calot's triangle undistorted, and avoids tenting the CBD. Conclusions: This new technique may make LC safer and decrease the number of bile duct injuries associated with the misidentification of the anatomy. Received: 28 May 1996/Accepted: 2 December 1996