What Is Cholangiocarcinoma?
Cancer of the bile ducts, intrahepatic or extrahepatic, often causing obstructive jaundice.
Why Do I Need Evaluation/Treatment?
You may present with jaundice, pruritus, or cholestatic liver-function tests.
How Should I Prepare?
- Imaging: MRCP/CT; no special prep for CT.
- ERCP/EUS: Fasting 8 hours, consent for stenting or biopsy.
What Happens During Treatment?
- Surgical Resection: Hilar tumors—extended hepatectomy; distal tumors—pancreaticoduodenectomy.
- Stenting: ERCP or percutaneous drainage to relieve obstruction.
- Adjuvant Therapy: Chemotherapy based on stage.
What Can I Expect Afterwards?
- Hospital stay 7–10 days for major surgery; 1–2 days for stenting.
Risks & Possible Complications
- Bile leakage (5–10%)
- Liver insufficiency in major resections
Follow-Up
- Imaging every 3–6 months.
- Monitoring for stent patency and cholestatic markers.
