A recent study highlights the risks associated with trans-papillary biliary drainage (TPBD) in patients with newly diagnosed perihilar cholangiocarcinoma. TPBD is linked with increased risk of cholangitis and delays in critical cancer treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
Key findings include:
18% of patients with TPBD required additional drainage due to cholangitis.
Those with cholangitis had a median overall survival of 13.6 months, compared to 20.6 months for those without.
Given these risks, it is advisable to avoid TPBD when possible and consider early referral to specialized centers for evaluation and management. This approach can mitigate the risk of cholangitis, ensure timely treatment, and potentially improve patient outcomes.
Primary care providers should discuss these findings with their patients, emphasizing the importance of specialized care and the potential risks of early biliary instrumentation. This can help in making informed decisions and optimizing the management of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma.
Read the full study
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