Single-Stage Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy and Endoscopic Removal of Common Bile Duct Stones: A Feasibility Study

Background: Combining laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in a single session offers a promising, efficient approach for managing patients with concurrent gallstones and choledocholithiasis. Methods: This feasibility study included 1008 patients diagnosed with both cholelithiasis and choledocholithiasis who underwent a single-stage procedure. In 92% of cases, the procedure was successful. In patients with large or multiple (more than 10–12) CBD stones, clearance was achieved via laparoscopic choledocholithotomy. Minor intraoperative bleeding occurred in 20 patients and was managed conservatively. Results: The single-stage approach demonstrated high success and low complication rates. The mean hospital stay was 2 days. Patients with mild preoperative pancreatitis had a slightly longer postoperative stay. Conclusion: The single-stage procedure minimizes hospital stay, reduces costs, and eliminates the risks associated with the two-stage approach, such as post-ERCP pancreatitis and cannulation failure. Our findings support that, in carefully selected patients, combined LC and ERCP is a safe and effective strategy for managing concurrent gallstones and CBD stones.