What is it?
A choledochal cyst is a congenital defect that arises in the bile duct, resulting in an abnormal dilation. This defect prevents bile from draining properly and contributes to cases of jaundice and pancreatitis. Choledochal cysts, if left untreated, can become malignant and form cancer. The defective section of the bile duct must be completely removed by surgical resection.
How to Prepare
Prior to surgery, the patient should refrain from consuming food or drink for at least eight hours in advance to prevent complications such as aspiration. The surgeon and his medical team will review all medications and supplements taken by the patient to determine readiness for surgical resection and will give specific instructions. The surgeon will explain the surgery in detail to the guardian. Certain medications, such as blood thinners and NSAIDs, should be stopped to decrease the risk of bleeding during surgery.
What happens during the procedure?
This surgery can be performed laparoscopically or through an open technique. The patient will be placed under general anesthesia. During open surgery, a single large incision is made. But, using laparoscopic surgery, a few small incisions are made to allow surgical instruments, the laparoscope (a small camera affixed to a lighted tube), and carbon dioxide pump to enter into the body. The carbon dioxide helps the surgeon clearly see the inside of the body with the laparoscope by slightly inflating the body. A breathing tube is placed down the throat to assist with breathing. The abnormal section of the bile containing the choledochal cyst is completely
removed, and the small intestine is connected to the remaining bile duct so that bile may be directly transferred to the small intestines.
Risks and Complications
* Infection
* Blood clots
* Bleeding
* Damage to surrounding organs and structures
* Cholangitis
* Biliary stone formation
* Anastomotic stricture
* Malignant cysts
* Residual debris
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