What is a biliary drainage tube insertion?

A biliary drainage tube is inserted through the side of the abdomen and drains the bile that normally flows from the liver to the intestines.

Why do I need a biliary drainage tube?

• The pathway that drains bile (bile duct) from your liver to your intestines has become blocked or narrowed.
• When bile cannot drain normally, it can cause infection, fever, pain, and jaundice (yellow skin).

Where is the biliary drainage tube insertion performed?

• It is performed in the Interventional Radiology Department.

Who will perform the biliary drainage tube insertion?

• One of our specially trained Interventional Radiologists.

What can I expect before the biliary drainage tube insertion?

• You will be seen in our clinic by one of our doctors and/or nurse clinicians, who will obtain a health history, perform a brief physical exam, explain the procedure, and answer your questions.
• You will have blood drawn and an IV (intravenous) catheter started if you don't already have one.
• You will receive IV (intravenous) antibiotics to help prevent infection.
• You will sign a consent form.

   

What can I expect during the biliary drainage tube insertion?

• You will be attached to a monitor so that IV (intravenous) medication can be given to relax you.
• Your abdomen area will be cleaned with special soap.
• The doctor will numb your skin with special medicine through a needle.
• The doctor will insert a small tube into your abdomen to drain the bile.
• The tube will remain in your body and the end will be taped secured in place.
• This tube will be attached to a drainage bag outside the body.

   

What can I expect after the biliary drainage tube insertion?

• You will remain in the hospital for staff to monitor and treat your pain and observe the amount of bile drainage from your tube.
• You may feel pain for 7 to10 days.
• Your doctor will discuss with you how long you will need your tube.
• Some people need tubes for the rest of their lives and have permanent tubes placed inside their bodies.
• If you have a narrowing or a hole in your bile duct, the doctor will discuss with you how this can be fixed.
• If you have stones in your bile duct, the doctor may be able to remove these stones through your tube.

What are the risks of having a biliary drainage tube?

• Bleeding at the puncture site.
• Infection at and around the drainage tube.

What are the benefits of having a biliary drainage tube?

• If your bile ducts are blocked, the tube will relieve your symptoms such as infection, fever, pain and jaundice (yellow skin).
• Removal of stones without surgery.

   

What are the alternatives to having a biliary drain inserted?

• Surgery to relieve your bile duct blockage.