Acquired abnormalities of the biliary tract from chronic gallstone disease11No competing interests declared.

Abstract

This study demonstrates a similar incidence of acquired abnormalities of the biliary tract from chronic gallstone disease to that already reported. But acquired absence of the cystic duct may occur more frequently than previously suspected. Patients with this condition are at high risk for bile duct injury during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Clinical awareness of this problem with strict adherence to the principles taught at open cholecystectomy may prevent or reduce the severity of bile duct injury in these patients.