MINIMALLY INVASIVE TREATMENT
Biliary Drainage
Biliary drainage is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure used to relieve blockage of the bile ducts and restore normal bile flow. It is performed in selected patients when bile drainage is impaired due to benign or malignant causes.
What Is Biliary Drainage?
Biliary drainage is an image-guided procedure in which a catheter or stent is placed into the bile ducts to bypass or relieve an obstruction. The procedure helps reduce bile buildup in the liver and alleviates symptoms related to biliary blockage.
It is commonly performed when endoscopic approaches are not possible or when additional drainage is required.
When Is Biliary Drainage Considered?
Biliary drainage may be considered in patients with:
- Obstructive jaundice
- Blockage of bile ducts due to stones, strictures, or tumors
- Infection of the bile ducts (cholangitis)
- Liver or pancreatic conditions causing bile duct obstruction
- Failure or limitation of endoscopic biliary drainage
Suitability is determined after clinical assessment and imaging evaluation.
How Biliary Drainage Is Performed
- The procedure is performed under imaging guidance
- Local anesthesia is commonly used
- A needle and catheter are guided into the bile ducts through the skin or liver
- External or internal drainage catheters may be placed
- In selected cases, a stent is positioned to maintain bile flow
Potential Advantages of Biliary Drainage
- Minimally invasive, image-guided approach
- Relieves symptoms related to bile duct obstruction
- Helps improve liver function and reduce infection risk
- Avoids or delays open surgical intervention in selected cases
Recovery and Aftercare
Patients are monitored after the procedure, and bile output or stent function is assessed. Follow-up imaging and clinical evaluation help guide ongoing management.
Recovery recommendations vary based on individual clinical factors and should be followed as advised by the treating doctor.
Risks and Considerations
Like all interventional procedures, biliary drainage has potential risks, including:
- Pain or discomfort at the access site
- Infection or bile leakage
- Bleeding (uncommon)
- Catheter or stent-related issues
Not all patients experience these effects, and risks vary depending on the underlying condition and patient factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is biliary drainage a surgical procedure
No. Biliary drainage is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure performed without open surgery.
Is biliary drainage permanent?
In some cases, drainage is temporary, while in others long-term drainage or stenting may be required depending on the cause of obstruction.
Does biliary drainage require hospital admission?
Hospital observation may be required, depending on patient condition and the type of drainage performed.
Consult for Biliary Drainage Evaluation
Clinical assessment and imaging studies are essential to determine whether biliary drainage is appropriate and to plan treatment safely.