Management of choledocholithiasis in an infant

Abstract

Choledocholithiasis is a rare diagnosis in the infant population with poorly defined optimal management. Endoscopic and operative interventions are both technically challenging. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), common bile duct exploration and laparoscopic cholecystectomy are typically safe and successful when performed. However, choledocholithiasis has been reported to spontaneously resolve in up to 60% of cases in neonates and infants. We present five cases of choledocholithiasis in infants and a comprehensive review of the literature. Based on our review and experience, we make a recommendation that clinicians should proceed with a selective approach in the management of this disease based on severity of symptoms, co-morbidities, and the available surgical and endoscopic capabilities of each institution.