Resolution of biliary stricture after living donor liver transplantation in a child by percutaneous trans-hepatic cholangiography and drainage: a case report

Intra-hepatic cholestasis arising from biliary strictures is a frequent complication in pediatric patients after liver transplantation. Minimally invasive procedures such as percutaneous drainage placement and balloon dilation are the preferred diagnostic and therapeutic modalities.

We report the case of a 12-month-old Caucasian boy with biliary atresia who was initially treated with hepatoportoenterostomy. In the following months, he developed biliary cirrhosis, accompanied by cystic bile retention, recurrent bile duct infections and malabsorption. Six months after the initial surgical intervention, he underwent living donor liver transplantation. Within two months, the hepatico-jejunostomy became occluded leading to progressive intra-hepatic cholestasis. Under sonographic guidance, external drainage of bile was accomplished by percutaneous trans-hepatic cholangiography and drainage. In total, our patient underwent 12 interventions under general anesthesia until balloon dilatation of the hepatico-jejunostomy was successfully performed. Finally, our patient’s general condition improved and he gained weight.

Minimally invasive techniques are preferred to surgical revisions and justify even multiple attempts. Interventions under general anesthesia, though not without risks, are still reasonable. Co-operation with parents and multidisciplinary approach to complication management by the involved surgeon, radiologist, pediatrician and anesthesiologist are important.