Kasai procedure
Pronunciation: kah-SIGH
A surgical procedure creating a portoenterostomy to establish bile drainage in infants with biliary atresia.
Full Definition
The Kasai procedure, formally known as hepatoportoenterostomy, is the standard initial surgical treatment for biliary atresia. The procedure involves excision of the atretic extrahepatic bile ducts and creation of a Roux-en-Y jejunal conduit anastomosed to the porta hepatis. Success depends on the presence of microscopic bile ducts at the transection plane and is inversely related to patient age at surgery. Post-operative complications include cholangitis, portal hypertension, and progressive liver dysfunction despite successful drainage.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Japanese surgeon Morio Kasai; timing of procedure is critical for outcomes.
In Context
- "The Kasai procedure was performed at 45 days of age with establishment of bile flow." — Operative report
- "Post-Kasai cholangitis was treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics and steroid therapy." — Hospital discharge summary