The significance of isolated hyperbilirubinemia in detecting asymptomatic common bile duct stones in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of isolated hyperbilirubinemia in the detection of choledocholithiasis.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study focused on adult patients diagnosed with gallstone disease, and undergoing intra-operative cholangiogram for suspected choledocholithiasis. Those presenting with isolated hyperbilirubinemia were investigated for their risk of choledocholithiasis, and were compared with those with normal liver function tests.

Results

Out of the total 1274 patients undergoing intra-operative cholangiogram in the study period, only 18 exhibited isolated hyperbilirubinemia. Among these, four patients were found to have common bile duct (CBD) stones. This indicates that in approximately 22 % of patients, isolated hyperbilirubinemia may be associated with CBD stones. However, it is essential to note that the number of patients in the study with isolated hyperbilirubinemia was relatively small.

Conclusion

Although the incidence of isolated hyperbilirubinemia was limited in our study, the presence of CBD stones in some of these patients suggests a potential association. Isolated hyperbilirubinaemia should not be overlooked as a risk factor for CBD stones. Nonetheless, additional investigations with a larger sample size are needed to establish a more definitive understanding of the relationship between isolated hyperbilirubinemia and choledocholithiasis.