Bile Duct Problems With Liver Donation Surgery

Bile duct problems with liver donation surgery, while relatively rare, can occur. The most common problems involve bile duct leaks or, in very rare cases, the divided part of the duct may become narrow. This is called a stricture and may slow or stop the flow of bile from the liver. Your healthcare team will take every precaution to avoid bile duct problems with liver donation surgery.

Bile Duct Problems With Liver Donation Surgery

When a lobe of your liver is removed, the bile ducts must be cut.

The main bile duct branches out into the liver's smaller ducts.

Many of the tiny ducts the liver cells are connected to will also be cut. While your doctor will do everything possible to repair the duct, bile may still leak from the cut surface of the liver or from the site where the duct was divided.

Bile leaks usually get better on their own -- many times, they just need a simple drain tube. Other bile duct leaks require more detailed medical attention, possibly another surgery. Bile duct problems with liver donation surgery happen in approximately 1 out of every 10 surgeries.

The divided part of the duct may also become narrow. This is called a "stricture." A stricture can slow or stop the flow of bile from the liver. Strictures are rarer, but may require a procedure to open up the duct and brace it in place. In rare cases, another surgery may be required.