What happens if bile leaks

A bile duct leak can arise either as a complication of a surgery, such as gallbladder removal or liver transplant, or from trauma to the biliary system. These treatments are not widely available, and are performed by experienced gastroenterologists with high volumes in these procedures. Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, and is used by the body to break down fats so they can be absorbed. The biliary system—which includes the gallbladder and bile ducts—produces and transports bile into the duodenum the first part of the small intestine to aid in digestion.

A bile duct leak can cause pain, inflammation and infection in the abdominal cavity where the bile has leaked. To diagnose a bile duct leak, we begin with a comprehensive exam and collecting a thorough history. Blood work is typically ordered to look at issues including elevated liver enzymes.

A biliary study called a hepatobiliary HIDA scan may be ordered. If a bile leak is suspected, your doctor may order an abdominal ultrasound, computed tomography CT scan, Biliary scan or an ERCP endoscopic procedure used to evaluate the bile ducts. How is a bile leak treated? Bile leaks are usually treated by placing a temporary stent in the bile duct during an ERCP. During an ERCP your doctor places a thin, flexible tube down your esophagus, stomach and the first part of the small bowel to access the bile ducts.

Your doctor will then place a stent to help improve the drainage of bile. Your doctor will also give you antibiotics to help prevent infections related to bile fluid that has leaked into your abdominal cavity. Complications include allergic reaction and death. Being fit and healthy before your operation reduces the risk of any complications occurring. This is known as post-cholecystectomy syndrome PCS. It's thought to be caused by bile leaking into areas such as the stomach, or by gallstones being left in the bile ducts.

You may benefit from a procedure to remove any remaining gallstones, or medication to relieve your symptoms. Page last reviewed: 03 December Next review due: 03 December Infection Some people develop a wound or internal infection after a gallbladder removal. Bleeding Bleeding can occur after your operation, although this is rare. Bile leakage When the gallbladder is removed, special clips are used to seal the tube that connects the gallbladder to the main bile duct.

Symptoms of a bile leak include tummy pain, feeling sick, a fever and a swollen tummy. Injury to the bile duct The bile duct can be damaged during a gallbladder removal. If this happens during surgery, it may be possible to repair it straight away.