High incidence of bile duct injuries during laparoscopic cholecystectomies highlights need for improved techniques

The 11-year population-based study on bile duct injuries (BDIs) during laparoscopic cholecystectomies (LC) revealed an overall BDI incidence rate of 0.81%, with minor and major BDI rates of 0.68% and 0.13%, respectively. No significant decline in BDI incidence was observed over the study period, contradicting the hypothesis. Drainage and ERCP stent placement were the most commonly used methods for BDI management, though Roux-en-Y hepatojejunostomy was performed in severe cases. The study emphasized the high rate of long-term bile duct strictures and a mortality rate of 4.6% associated with BDI complications.