Surgical management of uncomplicated biliary stone disease in children

Abstract

Biliary stone disease is increasingly prevalent in the pediatric population, driven in part by the rising rates of obesity. Estimates place the prevalence between 1.9 % and 4 %, with a concomitant increase in pediatric cholecystectomies. Whereas hemolytic anemias were historically the leading indication, non-hemolytic conditions are now frequently encountered. Pediatric surgeons must be adept at managing uncomplicated biliary stone disease across various age groups. This review outlines the surgical management of pediatric biliary stone disease, with emphasis on recent advances in minimally invasive techniques.