Percutaneous biliary endoscopy
After a biliary drain has been placed, a small tube with a camera (endoscope) and tools can be advanced across the skin into the biliary system/gallbladder in order to look at the blockage, obtain a sample, or even break apart/remove a stone.
The procedure has a moderate risk of bleeding, infection, and damage to nearby organs. If possible, patients should refrain from eating and drinking for 6 hours prior to the procedure and will be given medications to help them relax (i.e. moderate sedation). The procedure can be performed on both inpatients and outpatients, who typically can return to their room/home after monitoring.
