The Effect of Time and Cholecystectomy on Experimental Biliary Tree Dilatation

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Abstract
The changes of the biliary tree following distal bile duct obstruction and its release were confirmed by biliary scintigraphy and monitored by serial ultrasonography, computed tomography and values of serum bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase in 14 mongrel dogs. The degree and rate of biliary dilatation were independent of cholecystectomy. The most rapid rate of extrahepatic dilatation occurred within the first 48 h, while dilated intrahepatic ducts were 1st recognized 3-6 days after obstruction. Following release of the obstruction, the degree and rate of resolution of the biliary dilatation were independent of the duration of ligation (1 vs. 2 wk) and cholecystectomy. The dilatation resolved slowly. Dilated intraheptic ducts were recognized for as long as 8-13 days, while extrahepatic biliary dilatation was still present for 13 wk, at which time the experiment was terminated. The extrahepatic biliary dilatation evidently will approach a plateau .apprx. 1 mo. after total biliary obstruction. If the obstruction lasts > 1 wk, it apparently results in irreversible damage to the elasticity of the extrahepatic ducts. Thus, after release of the obstruction, serial biliary imaging is indicated until a new baseline of the biliary tree diameter is established.

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