Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Biliary fistula overview
Introduction
Overview
Overview
A biliary fistula, a type of fistula where bile leaks from the bile ducts into outside areas, can occur as a complication following biliary trauma, either iatrogenic or a result of a penetrating injury.
Pain may occur if the leaked bile is also infected, which can subsequently lead to biliary peritonitis. Extensive ascites may accumulate, especially in the setting of sterile bile leakage, which is often asymptomatic in nature.
Historical Perspective
Historical Perspective
Classification
Classification
Pathophysiology
Pathophysiology
Causes
Causes
Differentiating Biliary fistula overview from Other Diseases
Differentiating Biliary fistula overview from Other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Screening
Screening
Natural History, Complications, and Prognosis
Natural History, Complications, and Prognosis
Natural History
Complications
Prognosis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Diagnostic Criteria
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Surgery
Prevention
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]