Pediatric DUCT Score: A Highly Specific Predictive Model for Choledocholithiasis in Children

This multicenter study of 979 pediatric cholecystectomy patients identifies three pediatric-specific predictors of choledocholithiasis: dilated CBD ≥6mm, ultrasound-visible stones, and total bilirubin ≥1.8 mg/dL (Pediatric DUCT criteria). The model achieved >76% accuracy and >78% specificity, outperforming adult prediction factors which were not reliable in children.