Colonic varices ruptured via drainage catheter after extended right hepatectomy.

ABSTRACT

Extended right hepatectomy was performed on a 69-year-old woman with bile duct carcinoma of the hepatic hilum. Three weeks after the operation, an abscess was detected at the resected surface and a drainage catheter was inserted. The patient was discharged with the drainage catheter in place and followed-up at a local hospital. Three months later, the drainage catheter was removed. Bleeding immediately occurred through the fistula, and fistulography revealed varices. Angiography demonstrated right colonic varices, and the fistula was embolized with coils. There was no further bleeding. In conclusion, colonic varices that ruptured via a fistula of a drainage catheter were embolized through the fistula. Embolization of the fistula was useful in stopping the bleeding.