[Excessive bile secretion in a patient with cirrhosis after cholecystectomy and choledochotomy]

The volume of bile collected from a choledochal stoma usually does not exceed 1,000 milliliters during 24 hours. A case of excessive output of bile (drainage of more than 2,000 milliliters in 24 hours) through a T-tube after cholecystectomy and choledochotomy is described. Biopsy of the liver revealed micronodular cirrhosis. The hypotheses and experimental studies concerning excessive biliary out-flow are mentioned. The conclusion of this case-report is that the T-tube can be removed, despite excessive output of bile, when the patient tolerates clamping of the tube without abdominal pain and when and external fistula has been formed.