Treatment Methods for Hepatobiliary Duct Stones

Primary treatment options include medical (conservative) management and surgical intervention. For asymptomatic intrahepatic bile duct stones located proximal to the tertiary bile ducts—without associated localized dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts—no specific treatment is required. Patients may take oral anti-inflammatory and choleretic medications and undergo regular follow-up examinations.

In cases of recurrent cholangitis due to hepatobiliary duct stones, surgical intervention is indicated. The fundamental surgical principles are complete stone removal, resection of diseased tissue, establishment of adequate biliary drainage, and prevention of recurrence.

Depending on the anatomical location of the stones, presence of concomitant bile duct stricture, and degree of hepatic atrophy, various surgical approaches may be employed—including hepatectomy, choledochojejunostomy, choledocholithotomy, or even liver transplantation.