Bile can be removed from the liver using a stent.
Bile Removal via Stent Placement
One method for removing bile from the liver involves the placement of a stent. This is often done when there is a blockage or obstruction preventing the normal flow of bile. The stent serves as a conduit, allowing bile to drain.
Stent Placement Options
- Drainage into the small intestine: The stent can be positioned to allow bile to flow directly into the small intestine, which is its normal destination.
- Drainage into an external collection bag: Alternatively, the stent can drain bile into a collection bag located outside the body.
Other Uses of Bile Duct Stents
As the reference mentions, bile duct stents have additional uses:
- Guide surgery
- Keep a duct open if a tumor cannot be removed
- Open strictures (narrowing) of the bile duct
