flashcards_biliary_atresia
When is surgical intervention recommended for biliary atresia?
Surgical intervention is recommended immediately, ideally within the first 60 days of life.
What is the Kasai hepatoportoenterostomy?
Kasai hepatoportoenterostomy involves ligating the fibrous ducts above the join with the duodenum, dissecting proximally to the porta hepatis, and joining a loop of jejunum directly to the porta hepatis of the liver to facilitate bile duct drainage.
What is required during the first year of life after a Kasai procedure?
Antibiotic cover for the first year of life.
When is liver transplantation considered for biliary atresia?
If the Kasai procedure is unsuccessful or infants present with end-stage liver disease.
What are the complications of biliary atresia?
Complications include growth failure, portal hypertension, cholangitis, and ascites.
How is bile flow promoted in biliary atresia management?
Ursodeoxycholic acid promotes bile flow.
What nutritional supplementation is recommended during the first year of life for biliary atresia?
Either breast milk or medium-chain triglyceride-enriched formula with monthly monitoring and nutritional status.
What type of vitamins are given to all children with biliary atresia?
Fat-soluble vitamins, with levels monitored and doses adjusted accordingly.
How is cholangitis prevented during the first year of life in biliary atresia patients?
Prophylactic antibiotics (usually co-trimoxazole).
