Radiology, Vol 153, 379-383, Copyright © 1984 by Radiological Society of North America
Monooctanoin perfusion for in vivo dissolution of biliary stones. A series of 11 patients
SK Teplick and PH Haskin
Monooctanoin, a cholesterol solvent, was infused into the biliary system of
11 patients. Twenty-eight (74%) of 38 total stones responded to
monooctanoin: 16 (42%) decreased in size, and 12 (32%) dissolved
completely. Ten stones (26%) did not change in size. We attribute this to
inadequate drug-stone contact, which was corrected by placement of the
infusion catheter contiguous to the stone(s). The use of a second catheter
for biliary drainage avoided the side effect of biliary colic and increased
patient compliance. An infusion rate greater than 5 ml per hour invariably
produced pain and diarrhea. There were no significant side effects from
monooctanoin in any of our patients when a two catheter system and an
infusion rate of 5 ml per hour or less were used. A major drawback to use
of this still experimental agent is the prolonged hospital stay. This may
be ameliorated when at home use of monooctanoin is approved.
