About Common Bile Duct Exploration
Key Highlights
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Definitive treatment for complex bile duct blockages when endoscopic methods fail.Direct visualization allows for precise removal of stones, sludge, or strictures.Can be performed as an open surgery or a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure.Effectively relieves symptoms like jaundice, severe abdominal pain, and recurrent infections.Helps prevent serious complications such as life-threatening cholangitis or pancreatitis.
Who is this surgery for?
- Large or impacted gallstones in the common bile duct (choledocholithiasis).
- Failed or incomplete stone removal via ERCP.
- Suspected or confirmed bile duct strictures or tumors.
- Acute bacterial infection of the bile duct (cholangitis) not responding to antibiotics.
- Recurrent pancreatitis caused by bile duct stones.
- Post-cholecystectomy bile duct injury or leak requiring repair.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive pre-operative evaluation including blood tests, liver function tests, and imaging (Ultrasound, MRCP).
- Fasting for 8-12 hours prior to surgery as instructed.
- Discontinuation of certain medications like blood thinners after consulting the surgeon.
- Administration of prophylactic antibiotics to prevent infection.
- Discussion of anesthesia options and obtaining informed consent.
- Arranging for support and leave from work for the recovery period.
Risks & possible complications
- Bleeding, infection, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
- Injury to surrounding structures like the liver, intestines, or major blood vessels.
- Bile leakage from the surgical site, which may require additional drainage.
- Formation of scar tissue leading to future bile duct narrowing (stricture).
- Retained stones requiring a secondary procedure.
- Rare risks include deep vein thrombosis, pneumonia, or hernia at the incision site.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial hospital stay for monitoring pain, vital signs, and bile drainage.
- Pain management with prescribed medications and gradual advancement to a normal diet.
- Incision care instructions to keep the site clean and dry.
- Temporary placement of a T-tube drain may be required, with instructions for home care.
- Avoidance of heavy lifting and strenuous activity for several weeks.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing, remove any drains, and assess liver function.
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Typical hospital stay: 5-7 days
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Expected recovery time: 4-6 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering common bile duct exploration in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for common bile duct exploration in India include Miot Hospital Chennai, Gem Hospital Coimbatore, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform common bile duct exploration. MediFyr helps you compare surgical gastroenterologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for common bile duct exploration compare across other countries where we have data.
Top hospitals for Common Bile Duct Exploration in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated surgical gastroenterology teams and experience managing patients undergoing common bile duct exploration.
Dr. surendran r provided exceptional care...
Dr. surendran r provided exceptional care for my surgical gastroenterology condition. The treatment was personalized and effective.
Surgical Gastroenterologists for Common Bile Duct Exploration
Explore experienced surgical gastroenterologists who regularly perform common bile duct exploration and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 5 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Miot Hospital Chennai
- 8 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Baner
- 26 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur
- 26 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
KMC Hospital Mangalore
- 10 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
KMC Hospital Mangalore
- 22 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur
- 22 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Dhakuria
- 11 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Dhakuria
- 26 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospitals Broadway
- 38 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Varthur Road
- 23 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Varthur Road
- 14 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Varthur Road
- 8 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Varthur Road
- 15 Years Experience
- Surgical Gastroenterologist
SIMS Hospital Vadapalani
- 17 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
SIMS Hospital Vadapalani