Dear Mr./Ms. ………………………………………………………………………………………Date of birth: ………………………………………………………………………………………Date: …………………………………………….

A stent (a plastic or metal tube) has been placed in the bile ducts to restore the normal discharge of bile.

Am I allowed to eat normally with a stent?

Yes, you can eat and drink what you want. The stent does not place any restrictions on diet

Has the stent been stitched in place?

No, the stent has not been stitched. The stent clamps itself in place, and will usually remain in the right place.
Sometimes the stent will lower itself out of the bile ducts. In this case the stent will leave the body by passing through the bowels.
This can mean that the original complaints (see below) will return. Then a new stent will have to be placed.

Will a stent stay open forever?

The stent provides normal discharge of bile into the bowel. However, it is possible a blockage can occur because of thicker bile or in-growing tissue.
Sadly, there are no interventions (like diet or antibiotics) that can prevent this.

Possible signs a stent has become clogged or fallen out

  • A fever with a temperature above 38.5C (101F)
  • Cold shivers
  • White/grey colored defecation
  • Very darkly colored urine (like Cola)
  • Turning yellow of the eyes and skin
  • Itching

When these signs present themselves, please immediately contact:

    • The gastro-enterologist in your own hospital
    • Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm via Tel: 020-4441125 (outpatient clinic for stomach, intestinal and liver diseases, locatie VU).

Outside office hours you can call Tel: 020-4443636 (first aid) and ask about the MDL doctor on duty.