Biliary Disease

Bile is produced by the liver and channeled by the biliary ductal system into the intestinal tract for the softening and absorption of fats. In the body, the liver determines the chemical composition of bile, and this may be modified later by the gallbladder and biliary epithelium. People with biliary disease experience abnormalities in bile composition, biliary anatomy or function. A form of biliary disease – referred to as biliary obstruction – refers to the blockage of any duct that carries bile from the liver to the gallbladder or from the gallbladder to the small intestine. This can occur at various levels within the biliary system.

The major signs and symptoms of biliary obstruction result directly from the bile being held back in the liver. The purpose of treatment of biliary obstructions is to relieve the blockage. In some cases stones may be removed using an endoscope. The gallbladder will usually be surgically removed if the biliary obstruction is caused by gallstones. In blockage caused by cancer, endoscopic (using an endoscope), or percutaneous (through the skin) dilation of the obstruction and placement of a stent (metal mesh tube) for drainage may be required.

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