Efficacy of duodenoscopic treatment of biliary ascariasis while preserving function of duodenal sphincter: a report of 69 cases

Objective To observe the efficacy of duodenoscopic treatment of biliary ascariasis while preserving the function of the duodenal sphincter and to explore the feasibility of this technique as the preferred method for treatment of biliary ascariasis. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 69 patients with biliary ascariasis who received duodenoscopic treatment while preserving the function of the duodenal sphincter in our department from 2007 to 2013. Results All the 69 patients with biliary ascariasis not only preserved the function of the duodenal sphincter, but also had the biliary ascarids successfully removed. The patients were discharged 2- 3 days later and then received conventional helminthic treatment. No patients developed complications such as acute pancreatitis, bleeding, and perforation. Conclusion Duodenoscopic treatment of biliary ascariasis while preserving the function of the duodenal sphincter is safe and effective and causes fewer surgical complications, so it should be considered as the preferred method for treatment of biliary ascariasis.