Upper GI 22

Abstract

Background: Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is a safe and sensitive investigation for the imaging of common bile duct pathology. When used to exclude common bile duct (CBD) stones MRCP may obviate the need for intraoperative cholangiogram (IOC). In this prospective study, we looked at the single centre results of patients who underwent cholecystectomy with IOC following preoperative MRCP. Methods: Over a period of 1 year, 69 patients (24 male and 45 female), mean age 59 (range 19–86) years were investigated by MRCP prior to cholecystectomy. All patients underwent IOC. Inclusion criteria for MRCP consisted of derangement of liver function tests and/or history of jaundice in cases of US proven cholelithiasis. Results: Sixteen (n = 69) had suspected stones or filling defects on MRCP, all but two of these were confirmed to be stones on IOC. In only one patient was a stone visualized on IOC and not seen on MRCP. Conclusions: MRCP may be the only preoperative investigation needed for exclusion of CBD stones, obviating the necessity for intraoperative cholangiogram.