Objectives. The aim of this paper is to describe the clinical characteristics

diagnostic procedure and operative management of Mirrizi syndrome. Methods. Sixteen cases of Mirrizi syndrome were selected and reviewed from 1987 to 1997. Results. In the 16 cases

6 cases were male

10 cases were female

the average age was 62.7 years old. Ten cases were diagnosed to be Mirrizi syndrome preoperatively（62.5%）; 3 cases were considered to bile duct tumor

the other 3 cases were emergency

they were confirmed the diagnosis after the operation. Conclusions. Ultrasound is recommended as the first choice of screening method

while ERCP may confirm the diagnosis. Surgical approach is considered to be the choice and technical procedures are suggested to prevent intraoperative injury and to repair defects of the common bile duct.