What is the bile duct?

The main duct that carries bile is called the common bile duct. Bile is made in the liver and transported through the bile duct to the gall bladder and small intestine. It is required for the digestion of fat and also to remove toxins from the liver. Bile duct surgery may be performed for a number of reasons including the removal of gallstones in the bile duct and due to injury in previous surgery, frequently on the gall bladder.

The length of time taken for recovery from the operation will vary, in part depending on the type of surgery performed. There is a quicker recovery with laparoscopic, or keyhole, surgery than with standard open surgery, which leaves a larger scar.

After the operation

As in all operations the patient will need help with managing any pain. They will also need to take time for their body to recover. Assuming there are no other problems, the patient will be able to be up and walking short distances whilst still in hospital, possibly on the same day. As in most operations, this will be encouraged as it aids recovery. Once home, the amount of time taken for walking can be increased, taking care not to become too tired. Lifting weights, other than light weights should be avoided for up to four to six weeks and also twisting the body, allowing time for the tissue to heal. The patient should not drive until they can make sudden movements, such as an emergency stop, without any pain. It is a question of balancing the need to rest and recover with the need to exercise to aid the recovery. Hospital staff should give advice on how long is recommended before various activities are undertaken. Specific exercises may be recommended to help tone the muscles that have been damaged during surgery.

The patient will be off work for some time; how long will depend in part on the nature of the work involved. Clearly, manual work requiring physical activity and heavy lifting will require a longer recovery period than more sedentary work. Open surgery will also require a longer recovery period due to the larger incision.

Information will be given by hospital staff on what progress should be made in recovery and how soon the patient can return to their pre-operation activities.

Author Bio:

Gemma Mitchell is a health writer who writes about health related issues, problems and tips. For more information about bile duct and bile duct surgery issues please visit this great bile duct information website I found.