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What causes biliary cysts?

What causes biliary cysts?

The cause of choledochal cysts is unknown, but they are congenital, that is, present from birth, and, therefore, represent developmental abnormalities of the bile ducts in the fetus.

How is a choledochal cyst removed?

Bile duct surgery with total cyst removal is the definitive treatment for choledochal cysts. In earlier decades, an operation known as cystenterostomy was performed that only drained the cyst and the bilary reconstruction left the cyst behind.

How does choledochal cyst cause jaundice?

The classic triad of intermittent abdominal pain, jaundice, and a right upper quadrant abdominal mass is found only in minority of patients. In infants, choledochal cysts usually lead to obstruction of the bile ducts and retention of bile. This leads to jaundice and an enlarged liver.

What are the symptoms of cysts on the liver?

Symptoms of liver cysts can include:

  • distended or protruding stomach.
  • feelings of abdominal fullness or bloating.
  • abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right quadrant.
  • heartburn.
  • nausea and vomiting.
  • shoulder pain.

Is choledochal cyst hereditary?

+Are cysts hereditary? Girls are 3 to 4 times as likely as boys to have choledochal cysts.

Can a child be born with a choledochal cyst?

Although children are born with choledochal cysts, symptoms may appear in infancy or not for several years. The following symptoms may occur in infants or older children: What causes choledochal cysts? The bile duct transports bile from the liver, through the pancreas, to the first part of the small intestine (the duodenum).

Where are choledochal cysts located in the liver?

Choledochal cysts can form in the part of the bile duct inside of the liver (intrahepatic) or outside the liver (extrahepatic). There are four basic types of choledochal cysts based on where they appear:

What kind of surgery is done on choledochal cysts?

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is done through small incisions using miniaturized surgical tools and cameras or telescopes. MIS usually results in less pain, less scarring, and a quicker recovery time.

Why do choledochal cysts form in the pancreas?

Researchers believe that choledochal cysts form when there is an abnormality at the intersection between the bile duct and pancreatic duct. This abnormal connection forces pancreatic juice to flow backward into the bile duct and may cause cysts to form.