High-Risk 84-Year-Old Woman Successfully Treated for Recurrent Bile Duct Infection Without Major Surgery

At 84 years of age, Mrs. Urmila Devi from Moradabad was facing a serious health challenge. She was admitted to the

Ujala Cygnus Brightstar Hospital

with recurrent bile duct infection (cholangitis), experiencing symptoms such as fever, jaundice, weakness, and loss of appetite.

She had previously undergone treatment with a bile duct stent to improve bile drainage. However, over time, the stent became blocked, causing the infection to return and significantly affecting her overall health.

The situation was further complicated by multiple underlying medical conditions. She was suffering from coronary artery disease with low heart pumping capacity (low ejection fraction) and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), making her a very high-risk candidate for conventional surgery.

Expert Evaluation and Treatment Planning

After a thorough clinical assessment,

Dr. Arpit Bansal,

Gastroenterologist

Ujala Cygnus Brightstar Hospital, Moradabad

determined that replacing the blocked stent was essential to restore bile flow and control the infection.

Given the patient's advanced age and existing heart and lung conditions, major surgery posed significant risks. He therefore recommended a minimally invasive approach using a Self-Expanding Metallic Biliary Stent (SEMS), which offers better long-term drainage and a lower risk of recurrent blockage compared to conventional stents.

The Procedure

The blocked biliary stent was successfully replaced with a self-expanding metallic stent through an advanced endoscopic procedure.

The metallic stent was designed to create a wider passage for bile drainage, helping to prevent future obstruction and reduce the risk of recurrent infections.

Despite the patient's complex medical condition and high surgical risk, the procedure was completed successfully without complications.

A Remarkable Recovery

Following the procedure, Mrs. Urmila showed significant improvement.

Her infection resolved successfully, jaundice gradually improved, and her fever subsided. She regained her appetite, energy levels improved, and she began returning to her normal daily routine.

The successful restoration of bile drainage not only relieved her symptoms but also prevented further deterioration of her health.

Outcome

Mrs. Urmila recovered well and was discharged in stable condition.

The self-expanding metallic stent provided a durable long-term solution, significantly reducing the likelihood of future bile duct blockage, recurrent infections, repeated hospital admissions, and additional procedures.

Expert Insight

According to

Dr. Arpit Bansal, Gastroenterologist

, “Managing recurrent bile duct infections in elderly patients with multiple medical conditions can be challenging. Minimally invasive endoscopic procedures allow us to provide effective treatment while avoiding the risks associated with major surgery. In this case, the metallic biliary stent offered a safe and long-lasting solution, helping the patient recover and significantly improving her quality of life.”

Key Achievements

Successful treatment of recurrent bile duct infection without major surgery

Safe management of a highly complex elderly patient with multiple medical conditions

Successful placement of a Self-Expanding Metallic Biliary Stent

Resolution of jaundice, fever, weakness, and poor appetite

Reduced risk of future infections and repeat hospitalizations

Improved quality of life and long-term health outcomes

Advanced Care for High-Risk Patients

This case highlights how modern minimally invasive gastroenterology procedures can successfully treat complex conditions even in elderly and medically fragile patients.

Through expert clinical decision-making and advanced endoscopic technology, Dr. Arpit Bansal and the Gastroenterology team were able to avoid a high-risk surgical procedure while providing a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution. For Mrs. Urmila Devi and her family, the treatment brought not only relief from a recurring illness but also renewed confidence and a better quality of life.