Percutaneous Transhepatic Biliary Drainage Complicated by Bilothorax

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Gastroenterology
• Thoracic Surgery

Background:

• Percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) is a standard procedure for biliary tract issues.
• The right intercostal approach is common for PTBD but carries risks.
• Pleural complications, though infrequent, can arise from this approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of bilothorax secondary to PTBD.
• To highlight potential pleural complications associated with the right-sided PTBD approach.
• To discuss the management of such complications.

Main Methods:

• A case of a patient who developed bilothorax after right-sided PTBD is presented.
• The clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, and management strategies are reviewed.
• Relevant literature on PTBD-related pleural complications is discussed.

Main Results:

• The patient developed a significant bilothorax due to a leak from the PTBD tract.
• Prompt diagnosis and management were crucial for patient recovery.
• This case underscores the importance of vigilance for pleural complications.

Conclusions:

• Bilothorax is a rare but serious complication of PTBD.
• Awareness of this potential complication is essential for clinicians performing PTBD.
• Careful monitoring and timely intervention are key to managing PTBD-induced bilothorax.