Comparing treatments for common bile duct stones (CBD), historical data and recent studies reveal a shift towards laparoscopic-endoscopic rendezvous (LER) technique. Before 1990, endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) and surgery showed similar efficacy. Since 1991, LER emerged as effective, with fewer complications and shorter hospital stays. It’s favored, especially in younger, healthier patients, though its superiority over ES in older or high-risk patients remains uncertain.
Review by Stalnikowicz R and Benbassat J in Rambam Maimonides Med J