A T-tube is a T-shaped surgical drain often used in the common bile duct.
A T-tube is a specialized surgical device characterized by its distinctive 'T' shape. A T-tube is a T-shaped tube placed in the common bile duct following procedures involving the duct, such as after choledochotomy. Its primary function is typically to provide drainage or act as a stent within the biliary system after surgery.
The T-tube has two arms forming the crossbar of the 'T' and a single stem extending downwards. The crossbar arms are placed within the common bile duct, allowing bile to drain or maintaining patency, while the stem exits the body through a small incision, usually connecting to a drainage bag.
Common Uses of a T-Tube
While primarily associated with bile duct surgery, T-tubes have other important applications. Based on medical procedures, they can be used in several specific scenarios:
- Post-Choledochotomy: This is the most common use. After an incision is made into the common bile duct (choledochotomy) to remove gallstones or address other issues, a T-tube is often inserted to ensure drainage and prevent stricture formation while the duct heals.
- Persistent Duodenal Fistulas: In cases where an abnormal opening forms between the duodenum and another structure, a T-tube might be used to divert digestive contents and allow the fistula to heal.
- Pancreaticoduodenectomies: Complex surgeries involving the removal of parts of the pancreas and duodenum may utilize T-tubes in related reconstructive procedures.
- Hepaticojejunostomy in Liver Transplantation: During liver transplant surgery, a connection is made between the bile duct (hepatic duct) and the small intestine (jejunum). A T-tube can be placed to support this new connection during the healing process.
Key Aspects of a T-Tube
| Feature | Description | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | T-shaped | Facilitates placement and drainage/stenting |
| Location | Primarily Common Bile Duct; can be elsewhere depending on procedure | Drains bile or maintains duct patency |
| Primary Use | Following bile duct surgery (e.g., choledochotomy) | Ensures drainage, aids healing |
| Other Uses | Persistent duodenal fistulas, pancreaticoduodenectomies, hepaticojejunostomy | Diversion, support during healing/reconstruction |
In summary, a T-tube is a vital surgical tool, mainly used after common bile duct procedures to facilitate drainage and healing, but also employed in other complex gastrointestinal surgeries for similar purposes.
