An Update on Iatrogenic Biliary Injuries: Identification, Classification, and Management

Surg Clin North Am. 2019 Apr;99(2):283-299. doi: 10.1016/j.suc.2018.11.006. Epub 2019 Feb 10.

Abstract

Common bile duct injury is a feared complication of cholecystectomy, with an incidence of 0.1% to 0.6%. A majority of injuries go unnoticed at index operation, and postoperative diagnosis can be difficult. Patient presentation can vary from vague abdominal pain to uncontrolled sepsis and peritonitis. Diagnostic evaluation typically begins with ultrasound or CT scan in the acute setting, and source control is paramount at time of presentation. In a stable patient, hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scan can be useful in identifying an ongoing bile leak, which requires intervention. A variety of diagnostic techniques define biliary anatomy. Treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach.

Keywords: Cholecystectomy; Common bile duct injury; Iatrogenic biliary injury.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bile Ducts / injuries*
  • Biliary Tract Surgical Procedures / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Iatrogenic Disease
  • Intraoperative Complications / classification
  • Intraoperative Complications / diagnosis*
  • Intraoperative Complications / therapy
  • Postoperative Complications / classification
  • Postoperative Complications / diagnosis*
  • Postoperative Complications / therapy