Multicenter retrospective cohort study: Using trends in liver function tests to predict spontaneous passage of common bile duct stones in choledocholithiasis

Aim: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is the modality of choice in patients who are diagnosed with choledocholithiasis, but it carries potentially life-threatening risks and not readily available rural hospitals. Due to lack access this service, trend liver function tests often used predict spontaneous passage common bile duct (CBD) stone prevent performing a negative ERCP. The aim study investigate whether can be have radiological evidence choledocholithiasis. Methods: (LFTs) choledocholithiasis at two separate hospitals New Zealand Australia were collected points retrospectively. change LFT values between diagnosis immediately prior ERCP was analyzed. Results: Total 409 selected 108 (26%) 301 (74%) from Zealand, respectively. Demographic statistically different centers, female sex significantly predominant both. Cumulative data showed that 37% had no during procedure. Increased age significant persistent on Importantly, there statistical difference gallstones shown compared those passed their spontaneously. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) associated gallstone (p = 0.041), its clinical value questionable. Conclusion: Decreasing LFTs individual components poor predictors Two-thirds these stones remains an important diagnostic therapeutic for risk disease complications.