Bile Ducts

The bile ducts are a network of tubes in the liver, connecting the liver, gallbladder and small intestine. They transport bile, a digestive fluid essential for breaking down fats and absorbing fat-soluble vitamins and other nutrients from the small intestine. When the bile ducts become blocked, it can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, jaundice and other health conditions. Treatment options for bile duct blockage include medication, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and surgical procedures. The early diagnosis and treatment of bile duct blockage is important to prevent long-term health complications.