Gastroenterology - Post ERCP - Biliary Stents

Patient Details:

Name: ………………………………………………………………………………..

Date of Birth: …………………………….…………………………………………

Address: ……………………………………………………………………………..

Hospital Number: ……………………………………………..……………………

Patient’s name: ………………………………..……………………………………

This is to confirm that a biliary stent has been inserted at ERCP today [date] ………….............................................

The type of biliary stent that was inserted was: ………………………………………………………………………………

The plan is for the stent to be removed/to remain in place.
 
For stents that are due to be removed, we aim for this removal to be approximately ......... weeks from now.

If you have not heard from us by this time regarding the date for removal of the stent, please contact your consultant’s secretary who carried out the stent insertion.

Biliary stent insertion is a generally safe procedure but there are risks associated with a biliary stent. An important risk is the risk of infection which can sometimes lead to severe infection (septicaemia).

Symptoms suggestive of infection are listed below. These complications will usually be treatable but on some occasions will have lasting effects. These complications could also lead to death.

Another possible risk from biliary stent insertion if a stent has been in for a long time is that it may be more difficult to remove the stent.

We ask you to be mindful of the risks posed by a biliary stent and to immediately present at Accident and Emergency should you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Shivering, fever or lower than usual body temperature (hypothermia)
• Confusion
• Feeling significantly unwell
• Low blood pressure or dizziness
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea, vomiting or bowel upset
• Jaundice (skin or eyes turning yellow, urine turning dark)