Biliary Stent Placement
Biliary stent placement involves inserting a thin, hollow tube (stent) into the bile duct to keep it open after a blockage or narrowing, restoring proper bile flow and alleviating symptoms like jaundice and abdominal pain.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Purpose:
Biliary stents are used to treat blockages or narrowing in the bile ducts, which can occur due to various reasons like gallstones, tumors, or scar tissue.
How it works:
The stent, made of plastic or metal, is placed within the bile duct to keep it open and allow bile to flow freely from the liver to the digestive system.
Methods of Placement:
- Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): This is the most common method, where a doctor inserts a thin, lighted tube through the mouth, down the esophagus, and into the bile duct.
- Percutaneous Biliary Drainage (PBD): In this method, a stent is placed through the skin and liver and into the bile duct using a thin needle.
Benefits:
Biliary stent placement can provide immediate relief from symptoms like jaundice, abdominal pain, and digestive issues.
Types of Stents:
- Plastic Stents: These are often used for short-term relief or before definitive surgery.
- Metal Stents: These are more durable and may be used for longer periods, especially in cases of malignant biliary obstruction.
Complications:
Potential complications of biliary stenting include stent migration, tumor ingrowth, or stent blockage.
When to consider:
Biliary stent placement is considered for patients with bile duct obstruction, whether due to benign or malignant causes, to relieve symptoms and improve bile flow.
Preparation:
Before the procedure, you may need to fast, and you should inform your healthcare provider about any allergies or medications you are taking.
Aftercare:
You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you after the procedure.