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Case Overview:

This case involved complications of a bile leak post-op laparoscopic cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder). An endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was performed to help visualize the bile leak, but there was a complication of duodenal stricture (narrowing of the duodenum). When they attempted to dilate the duodenum it perforated. The surgeons then switched to an open exploratory laparotomy to look for the original bile leak and repair the duodenal perforation. Unfortunately the patient ended up dying from an infection and/or hepatic artery bleed. The jury found in favor of the defense.