Plastic Biliary Stent Placement

A plastic stent is placed endoscopically to keep a narrowed or blocked bile duct open. The stent crosses the obstruction and restores free flow of bile into the duodenum; jaundice and itching subside within a short time. A plastic stent is temporary and is usually replaced every 3 months; when a long-term solution is required, a metal stent is chosen.

• Malignant or benign bile duct stricture
• Temporary drainage when a stone cannot be removed
• Sealing a bile leak
• Reducing jaundice before surgery