Biliary atresia

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Digestive system Bile produced in the liver

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Biliary atresia

An operation called the Kasai procedure is done to connect the liver to the small intestine, bypassing the malformed ducts. It is most successful if performed before the baby is 10 - 12 weeks old. However, a liver transplant may still ultimately be required.

Early surgical intervention will improve the survival of more than one-third of those affected by the condition. The long-term benefit of liver transplant is not yet known, but is expected to improve survival.

• Liver failure
• Infection
• Surgical complications
• Failure of the Kasai procedure
• Irreversible cirrhosis

Call your health care provider if your child appears jaundiced, or if other symptoms suggestive of this disorder develop.

Email this page  Printer friendly  Bookmark this page