Historical Perspective and Treatments for Common Bile Duct Stones

Abstract

Gallstones have formed in humans for thousands of years, with the first documented account in 1420. Although the significance of gallstone disease may not have been known at that time, it quickly became apparent at the turn of the twentieth century, when the world’s first cholecystectomy was performed. Not until 1929 was a more comprehensive discussion of surgical techniques for the gallbladder and bile ducts published. In the twenty-first century, endoscopic and laparoscopic techniques have become more accepted and their use more widespread. Minimally invasive techniques have revolutionized the approach to choledocholithiasis. Morbidity and mortality have continued to improve, to the point at which common bile duct stones often are treated in the outpatient setting. The introduction of Natural Orifice Translumenal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) in the past 10 years may be the next step in minimally invasive approaches.