Biliary fistula

Biliary fistula: understanding, symptoms and treatment

A biliary fistula, also known as a hepatic fistula or biliary fistula (lat. f. biliaris), is a serious medical condition associated with disruption of the normal flow of bile from the gallbladder or bile ducts. This condition can cause significant discomfort and potentially lead to complications.

Description:
A biliary fistula occurs when an abnormal passage forms between the bile ducts and other organs or body cavities. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including gallstones, inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), surgical complications after gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy), injury, or tumor.

Symptoms:
A biliary fistula can present with a variety of symptoms, including:

1. Pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen.
2. Yellowness of the skin and mucous membranes (jaundice).
3. Unpleasant taste in the mouth.
4. Malaise and general weakness.
5. Poor digestion, including nausea, vomiting and heartburn.
6. Excretion of bile through a wound or other opening.

Diagnosis and treatment:
To diagnose a biliary fistula, your doctor will usually do a comprehensive examination, including a physical exam, blood and urine tests, ultrasound, and computed tomography (CT) scan. Sometimes endoscopic procedures such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) or percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTCH) may be necessary.

Treatment for gall fistula usually requires surgery. Depending on the specific situation and location of the fistula, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to restore a normal bile duct. Sometimes a temporary drainage catheter is required to facilitate the flow of bile and prevent complications.

In conclusion, biliary fistula is a serious condition that requires medical intervention. If symptoms associated with a violation of the outflow of bile or the release of bile through an opening appear, you must consult a doctor for diagnosis and prescribing appropriate treatment. Early detection and adequate treatment of gall fistula can help prevent complications and improve the prognosis of gall fistula.