Endoscopic techniques are available to treat the abnormal blood vessels and correct the bleeding problems. The other problems are hereditary. Familial adenomatous polyposis syndrome Patients with this genetic disorder are predisposed to the development of polyps which can turn in to cancers in the upper portion of the small intestine and in any remaining portion of the colon and rectum which has not been removed surgically. The treatment of polyps, especially in the upper intestine, has proven itself to be life saving for patients who begin a regular program of surveillance. A specialized and large experience has developed, specifically treating polyps which grow at a point in the intestine where the bile duct and pancreas ducts drain their juices into the intestine.
Bile duct strictures Blockages to the bile ducts can occur from a variety of causes.
Inflammatory strictures can develop from certain diseases like primary sclerosing cholangitis and as a result of operations. The blockages which are created impair the flow of bile and can damage the liver. Through specialized techniques, these blockages can be opened and commonly corrected. In some patients stones can develop in the major bile duct after the gallbladder has been removed and while the gallbladder is also in place. These stones can create life-threatening problems with jaundice and infection.