An uncommon complication of liver biopsy: obstructive jaundice from blood clots

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The AA. report on a case of one young woman who developed obstructive jaundice induced by hemobilia after percutaneous liver biopsy, successfully treated with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

METHODS: An endoscopic sphincterotomy was performed with extraction of the clots.

OBSERVATIONS: Four weeks after ERCP the patient was healthy and asymptomatic, valuated as outpatient.

CONCLUSIONS: The role of ERCP in managing biliary sequelae of hemobilia is well established: biliary decompression is required if and intrabiliary lot causes obstructive jaundice and/or biliary colic. ERCP is feasible and leads to relief of symptoms in most cases, without the need of surgery.