BILIARY TRACT INJURY

22. Why are complications associated with bile duct leaks?

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Bilomas (i.e., collections of bile) frequently become infected and may result in lethal peritonitis. Biliopleural fistula, a communication between the biliary system and pleural cavity, persists because of the relative negative pressure in the thorax and may result in a bile empyema.

23. What is the initial management of an established bile leak?

Show answer
Endoscopic transampullary stenting frequently allows spontaneous resolution of bile duct injuries. Extensive injuries require hepaticojejunostomy for reconstruction.

References
WEB SITES

1. http://www.acssurgery.com/abstracts/acs/acs0506.htm
2. http://www.acssurgery.com/abstracts/acs/acs0508.htm

BIBLIOGRAPHY
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