Biliary Drainage

Helping bile flow when there’s a blockage in the liver Biliary drainage is a procedure that helps drain bile (a digestive fluid made by the liver) when it cannot flow properly due to a blockage. A small tube is placed into the bile ducts inside the liver, using imaging for guidance. Bile may drain into a small bag outside the body or directly into the intestines, depending on your condition. Why is it done? Blockage in the bile ducts can happen due to:

• • • Tumors (in the liver, pancreas, or bile ducts)
    • Gallstones
    • Infections or injury
    • Narrowing or scarring of the ducts
  When bile can’t flow properly, it can cause:
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • Infection
  • Liver damage
  What are the benefits?
  • • Relieves symptoms like pain, fever, and jaundice
    • Helps the liver work better
    • Can be used when endoscopic procedures (like ERCP) are not possible
    • Minimally invasive and effective
    • Most people go home the same day
  What to expect:

  • • The procedure is done under local anesthesia with sedation
    • A soft tube is placed through the skin into the bile ducts
    • You may have a drainage bag temporarily
    • The doctor will explain how to care for the tube if needed at home

Biliary drainage is a safe way to improve your symptoms and protect your liver when there's a blockage in the bile flow.