As an alternative method to EST, Endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (EPBD) was described by Staritz et al for the management of CBD stones. EPBD can preserve SO function and avoid undesirable effects due to an incompetent sphincter. It is reported that the basic SO function can be restored in one month after EPBD. Nonetheless, EPBD is indicated for the stones smaller than 12mm in diameters because the biliary orifice is enlarged to a lesser extent compared with EST. Furthermore, the incidence of postoperative pancreatitis reaches up to 15-30%. These disadvantages limit the application of EPBD.