Laparoscopic C-tube drainage via cystic duct following common bile duct exploration

Laparoscopic common bile duct (CBD) exploration has come into practice with the development of laparoscopic techniques and instrumentation. However, the use of a T-tube for biliary drainage lessens the advantages of laparoscopic surgery, i.e., short hospital stay and good cosmesis. We have performed CBD exploration by laparoscopic chledochotomy followed by transcystic biliary drainage using a 6 French vinyl tube (C-tube) instead of a T-tube and primary closure of the choledochotomy. The C-tube could be removed within 7 days postoperatively because the cystic duct was ligated with an elastic thread. Twelve patients with CBD stones were successfully treated by this new technique and there was no morbidity attributable to the procedure.