A meta-analysis of 1,576 patients shows outcomes for managing common bile duct stones.

• Preoperative endoscopic sphincterotomy (est) has a higher CBD clearance rate (OR 1.72).
• Laparoscopic choledocholithotripsy (lcbde) shows lower stone recurrence (OR 0.27) and reduced costs ($2,059 savings).

Both methods have similar safety profiles; tailor treatment based on expertise and patient factors.

• Hospital stays and residual stone rates were comparable.