Summary
Primary exploration of the common bile duct from below, with ampullaplasty, is suggested as an alternative to choledochotomy. Orthodox surgical treatment gives rise to recurrent stone in the common duct and the post‐cholecystectomy syndrome too frequently. Transduodenal ampullaplasty helps to prevent these complications, and the technique, and advantages of the operation are discussed, with presentation of a series of cases extending over five years.