Biliary stent implantation: An effective method for resolving biliary obstruction

Biliary stent implantation: An effective method for resolving biliary obstruction

Biliary obstruction is a common digestive system disease that can be caused by various reasons, such as bile duct stones, cholangiocarcinoma, pancreatic cancer, etc. Biliary obstruction can lead to the obstruction of bile excretion, causing symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain and fever. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening. Biliary stent implantation is an important method for treating biliary obstruction. It can effectively restore the circulation of bile, relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients.

Types of biliary stents

Biliary stents are mainly divided into two types: plastic stents and metal stents.

Plastic brackets: Plastic brackets are usually made of materials such as polyethylene or polyurethane, featuring softness and ease of bending. The price of plastic brackets is relatively low, but they are prone to clogging and need to be replaced regularly, usually every 3 to 6 months.

Metal supports: Metal supports are typically made of materials such as nickel-titanium alloy or stainless steel, featuring high strength and stability. Metal stents have better patency and durability, and can maintain bile circulation for a relatively long time. Generally, they can be used for 6 to 12 months or even longer.

Indications for biliary stent implantation

Biliary stent implantation is applicable to biliary obstruction caused by various reasons, including:

Bile duct stones: For patients with bile duct stones that cannot be removed through surgery or those whose stones recur after surgery, biliary stent implantation can relieve the symptoms of biliary obstruction and create conditions for subsequent treatment.

Cholangiocarcinoma: Cholangiocarcinoma is one of the common causes of biliary obstruction. For patients with cholangiocarcinoma who cannot be surgically resected, biliary stent implantation can alleviate jaundice, improve the quality of life of patients and prolong their survival period.

Pancreatic cancer: Pancreatic cancer often invades the bile duct, causing biliary obstruction. Biliary stent implantation can relieve jaundice, alleviate the patient's pain and provide support for further treatment.

Other causes, such as biliary stricture, biliary injury, and congenital biliary malformations, can also be treated by biliary stent implantation.

The process of biliary stent implantation

Biliary stent implantation is usually performed under endoscopy and mainly includes two methods: endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and percutaneous transhepatic bile duct puncture and drainage (PTCD).

ERCP pathway: Before undergoing ERCP, patients need to make preparations such as fasting and water abstinence. The doctor inserted the endoscope through the mouth into the duodenum to find the opening of the bile duct. Insert the guide wire through the opening of the bile duct and send the guide wire into the bile duct. Send the stent conveyor into the bile duct along the guide wire and release the stent to the appropriate position. Finally, withdraw the endoscope and the transporter to complete the operation.

PTCD approach: Under local anesthesia, the doctor inserts the catheter into the intrahepatic bile duct through percutaneous puncture guided by ultrasound or X-ray. Contrast agent was injected through the catheter to show the condition of the bile duct. The guide wire is sent into the bile duct, and then the stent conveyor is sent into the bile duct along the guide wire, and the stent is released. Finally, fix the catheter and complete the operation.

The advantages of biliary stent implantation

Minimally invasive: Biliary stent implantation is a minimally invasive surgery that causes less trauma to the patient and leads to a faster recovery.

Effective symptom relief: Biliary stents can quickly restore the circulation of bile and alleviate symptoms such as jaundice and abdominal pain.

Improving the quality of life: By relieving biliary obstruction, the quality of life of patients, including their diet and sleep, has been significantly improved.

Creating conditions for subsequent treatment: For some patients who cannot undergo surgery or other treatments immediately, biliary stent implantation can buy time and create conditions for subsequent treatment.

Precautions after biliary stent implantation

Regular follow-up: Patients need to undergo regular biliary ultrasound, liver function and other tests to monitor the patency of the stent and changes in liver function.

Pay attention to diet: Patients should maintain a low-fat and light diet and avoid foods high in fat and cholesterol to prevent cholestasis.

Take medicine as prescribed by the doctor: Patients may need to take some medications, such as cholagogic drugs and antibiotics, to prevent infection and promote bile excretion.

Pay close attention to the symptoms: If symptoms such as aggravated jaundice, abdominal pain, and fever occur, seek medical attention promptly as further treatment may be necessary.

Conclusion

Biliary stent implantation is a safe and effective method for treating biliary obstruction, which can bring obvious benefits to patients. However, biliary stent implantation is not suitable for all patients. Doctors will conduct a comprehensive assessment based on the specific conditions of the patients and select the most appropriate treatment plan. At the same time, after the patient undergoes biliary stent implantation, they need to closely cooperate with the doctor's treatment, pay attention to postoperative care and follow-up to ensure the treatment effect. It is hoped that through the introduction of this article, more people can understand the technology of biliary stent implantation and provide assistance for the treatment of patients with biliary obstruction.

It should be noted that this article is for popular science reference only. The specific treatment plan should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor. If you or someone around you has problems related to biliary obstruction, you should seek medical attention promptly to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.