Australia
A 45-year-old female asked:

After complicated gallbladder surgery 4 days ago the tube is draining too much bile, about a litre a day. what could cause this?

1 doctor answer2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Raj Borade
Internal Medicine - Gastroenterology 21 years experience
Depends: Hi, depending on where the tube is this could be normal or abnormal. If the draining tube is meant to drain the bile( eg-as a means of protecting a bile duct anastomoses) then it's normal as the liver can produce large quantities of bile. On the other hand if this tube is in the abdominal cavity ; is just supposed to drain excess fluid then it indicates a bile leak ; is abnormal. Talk 2 surgeon.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Jul 2, 2018

Disclaimer:

Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.