Biliary tract injuries after lap cholecystectomy-types, surgical intervention and timing
Michail Karanikas1, Ferdi Bozali1, Vasileia Vamvakerou1
11 1st Department of Surgery, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana, Alexandroupolis, 68100 Thrace, Greece ; 2 1st Propedeutic Surgical Clinic, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, 54655 Macedonia, Greece.
Abstract:
Bile duct lesions, including leaks and strictures, are immanent complications of open or laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Endoscopic procedures have gained increasing potential as the treatment of choice in the management of postoperative bile duct injuries. Bile duct injury (BDI) is a severe and potentially life-threatening complication of LC. Several series have described a 0.5% to 0.6% incidence of BDI during LC. Early recognition and an adequate multidisciplinary approach are the cornerstones for the optimal final outcome. Suboptimal management of injuries often leads to more extensive damage to the biliary tree and its vasculature. Early referral to a tertiary care center with experienced hepatobiliary surgeons and skilled interventional radiologists would appear to be necessary to assure optimal results.
