Comparison of the cystocholedochal angle in patients with choledocholithiasis and only cholelithiasis

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the relation between the cystocholedochal angle (SCA) and choledocholithiasis. The data of 3.350 patients were reviewed retrospectively and a total of 628 patients who met the criteria were included in the study. The patients included in the study were divided into three groups as patients with choledocholithiasis (Group I), patients with only cholelithiasis (Group II), and patients without gallstones as control group (Group III). Measurements of SCA, cystic, bile, and common hepatic ducts (CHDs) were made on magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) images. Laboratory findings and demographic characteristics of the patients were also recorded. Of the patients included in the study 64.2% were female, 35.8% were male, and their age ranged from 18 to 93 (mean 53.37 +/- 18.87 years). While the mean SCA values of all patient groups were 35.44 degrees +/- 10.44 degrees, the mean length of cystic, bile and CHDs were 28.91 +/- 9.30, 40.28 +/- 12.91, 27.09 +/- 9.68 mm respectively. All measurements were higher in Group I in comparison to other groups, whereas all measurements of Group II were higher than those of Group III (p < 0.001). Statistical analysis suggests that a SCA of 33.5 degrees and above is an important criterion for diagnosis of choledocholithiasis. Increase of SCA raises the likelihood of choledocholithiasis, as it facilitates the passage of stones from gallbladder into the bile ducts. This is the first study to compare SCA in patients with choledocholithiasis and those with only cholelithiasis. Therefore, we think that this study is important and will be a guide for clinical evaluation.