[Non-resectable neoplasms of the biliary duct: palliative surgery vs non-surgical management]

A retrospective analysis comparing the results of biliary enteric anastomoses and non-operative management in unresectable bile duct carcinomas was carried out. Twenty-four patients underwent surgical drainage (Group A), and 29 were managed with transhepatic or endoscopic stent (Group B). Concomitant medical diseases were more frequent in group B patients (16.6% vs 48.2%, p < 0.03). Group A and group B were comparable in morbidity (29.1% vs 41.3%), mortality (12.5% vs 13.7%) and 1-year survival rate (21% vs 17%). Median survival was 4.2 months in group A and 2.6 in group B. Jaundice relief was achieved in 70.8% of group A patients and in 68.9% of group B. Group B patients experienced more cholangitis (p = 0.001) and required more hospital readmission (p = 0.0015). Quality of life was better in group A patients, however difference did not reach statistical significance. Therefore, low risk patients with unresectable hilar bile duct tumor and yet good life expectancy may benefit from surgical palliation.