[Bile duct reconstruction using 3-dimensional collagen tubes].

INTRODUCTION In recent years, with widespread laparoscopic cholecystectomy and liver transplantation, complications involving the biliary system are increasing. All current techniques have a high risk of recurrence or high-morbidity. MATERIAL AND METHODS A 3-dimensional collagen bile duct modified with agarose hydrogel was developed to substitute the affected extrahepatic bile duct. It was used in 40 guinea pigs and the histology and physiology was studied at 4 weeks, 3 and 6 months after transplantation. CONCLUSIONS The graft shows to have a high potential in applications to treat hepatobiliary diseases which require surgery.