Biliary Obstruction (Obstructive Jaundice)
Biliary obstruction occurs when bile cannot flow normally from the liver to the intestine. Causes include gallstones, strictures and tumours of the bile ducts or nearby organs.
Symptoms
Yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, pale stools, itching and abdominal discomfort. Fever with jaundice and pain may indicate a serious infection requiring urgent care.
How interventional radiology treats it
Percutaneous biliary drainage places a small tube through the skin into the bile ducts to relieve the blockage. A stent may be inserted to keep the duct open. Imaging guides placement. Treatment of the underlying cause and monitoring for infection are important.
Whether this treatment suits you depends on your scans and overall health. A consultation is the first step.
Your doctors
Talk to an interventional radiologist.
Bring any scans or reports you have. We’ll tell you whether this treatment is an option.