Which type of surgery might be performed to remove a choledochocele?

The appropriate type of surgery to remove a choledochocele is an open choledochotomy. A choledochocele is a cystic dilation of the common bile duct, which typically occurs in association with other congenital abnormalities. This condition is treated surgically to prevent complications such as bile duct obstruction or pancreatitis.

An open choledochotomy allows direct access to the common bile duct, where the choledochocele can be excised. This procedure involves making an incision to access the biliary tree, providing a clear and direct route for removal of the abnormality.

While laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used for gallbladder removal, it does not address issues directly related to the common bile duct. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is primarily a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure focused on the biliary and pancreatic ducts but is not a definitive surgical option for removing a choledochocele. Biliary bypass surgery may provide relief from bile duct obstruction but does not directly remove the choledochocele itself.