Liver Disease Without a Gallbladder

[MrsYates]

I was diagnosed with Primary Billiary Cirrhosis over a year ago. Due to a complication from a liver biopsy done last year, (a bile duct was nicked), I bled without anyone's knowledge. The bleeding clogged the bile ducts to my pancreas and to my gallbladder resulting in severe pancreatitis and the dysfunction of my gallbladder resulting in its removal. Aside from the normal problems of missing a gallbladder, how will that affect my PBC? Since there isn't a store house for the bile will my health be affected in any way? Will this put any undo stress on my liver or cause my PBC disease to be affected?

Thank you.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I am not aware of gallbladder removal affecting PBC, nor the liver function.  

Checking the liver enzymes can be done periodically, to determine if there is any sign of liver dysfunction.

If there is concern about the biliary ducts, an MRCP or ERCP can be performed.  

These options can be discussed with your GI physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[MrsYates]

Since my gallbladder was removed I have such severe bile reflux. Does that have more to do with the removal or my liver disease?