Biliary leakage requiring reoperation following T-tube removal

Six cases of serious bile leakage following T-tube removal are reported. This complication is rare, but the treatment is reoperation. The duration of bile duct intubation appeared less important than the material in the tube and the technique of duct suture. After tube removal, ultrasound scan was very helpful in establishing the presence of serious bile leakage. Surgeons are recommended to close the common bile duct round a latex T-tube using interrupted sutures.