Jaundice is characterized by the yellow discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and whites of the eyes (sclera). While medical jaundice can stem from liver hepatitis or red blood cell breakdown, Surgical (Obstructive) Jaundice occurs when the flow of bile from the liver to the small intestine is blocked.
Red Flag Symptoms of Obstructive Jaundice
- Dark Tea-Colored Urine: Excess bilirubin excreted through the kidneys.
- Pale, Clay-Colored Stools: Absence of bile pigment reaching the digestive tract.
- Intense Body Itching (Pruritus): Bile salt deposition in skin nerve endings.
- Right Upper Quadrant Abdominal Pain & Fever: Indicating biliary stasis or ascending cholangitis infection.
Surgical Intervention & Repair
Obstructive jaundice demands rapid evaluation via Ultrasound, LFT, and MRCP scans. Treatment involves clearing bile duct stones, placing biliary stents, or performing choledocho-jejunostomy reconstructive surgery.