Colonic perforation with duodenal-colic fistula formation by a biliary stent in a liver transplant recipient

Abstract

Endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP) is increasing utilized in the setting of liver transplantation for a number of post-operative related biliary issues. Although ERCP represents an excellent technology, it is not without attendant risk including sepsis, bleeding and perforation. In this case report, the first of its kind, is described the occurrence of a migrated biliary stent induced duodenal-colic fistula formation in a liver transplantation patient who had required dual biliary stenting given post-operative biliary structuring. The placement of dual stents and their size are likely implicated in the cause of perforation. The enteric anatomy and the medical immunosuppression likely contributed to a delay in diagnosis and worse outcome.