Work

Hilar cholangiocarcinoma associated with pancreaticobiliary maljunction, pancreas divisum, and a type V right hepatic duct variant: a case report

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This case describes hilar cholangiocarcinoma with pancreaticobiliary maljunction (PBM), pancreas divisum, and a type V right hepatic duct variant. Preoperative computed tomography (CT) with three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) clarified the complex ductal anatomy and informed reconstruction. After local extrahepatic bile duct resection with hilar lymphadenectomy, the patient initially recovered uneventfully. At 5 months, CA19-9 was 4,360 U/mL, CEA was within the reference range, and imaging raised concern for recurrence. The patient died at home 6 months after surgery; multiorgan failure was reported, but no autopsy was performed. This case emphasises the need for detailed preoperative mapping of coexisting biliary and pancreatic ductal variants to guide operative planning and biliary reconstruction. It also illustrates the potential oncological limitations of local extrahepatic bile duct resection in the setting of incomplete disease staging.

Source: Frontiers in Surgery

DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2026.1931578

Authors: Ruipeng Dong, Peipei Cong, Guangjun Shi

Institutions: Dalian Medical University, Qingdao Municipal Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Cholangiocarcinoma and Gallbladder Cancer Studies

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801