A biliary stent is a small, hollow tube that is placed inside the bile duct to keep it open and allow normal bile flow from the liver to the intestine. Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps in breaking down fats. When the bile duct becomes blocked or narrowed due to various medical conditions, a biliary stent is used to restore proper drainage and prevent complications.
### What is a Biliary Stent?
A biliary stent is typically made of plastic or metal and is designed to be flexible yet durable. It is inserted into the bile duct through a minimally invasive procedure called endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). In some cases, it may also be placed using radiological guidance. The main purpose of the stent is to bypass the obstruction and ensure that bile flows freely into the small intestine.
### Why is a Biliary Stent Needed?