Thousands of patients from around the world come to the Ichilov clinic every year for medical assistance. Here, they can expect to receive top-notch treatment for any liver and bile duct diseases, including cholangitis. The doctors at Ichilov adhere to an interdisciplinary approach and exchange opinions, collaborating as team members. Therefore, at Ichilov, a patient receives not just one, but several expert opinions simultaneously. This approach allows for a comprehensive examination of the problem from all angles and ensures integrated treatment with the best outcomes.
The staff of the international department at the clinic does everything possible to ensure that the patient feels as comfortable as possible at Ichilov. All procedures and consultations are conducted with the assistance of a personal case manager, who helps with understanding terminology and ensures that all appointments are carried out on time. The case manager also takes care of everyday issues and formalities so that the patient can fully focus on recovery. Feedback about the work of the international department staff is always positive.
Cholangitis Treatment Methods
Treatment for chronic and acute cholangitis may vary depending on the cause. Treatment also depends on how early the diagnosis is made.
Medication Treatment
Early treatment is especially important in acute cholangitis. The doctor may recommend antibiotics such as penicillin, ceftriaxone, metronidazole, or ciprofloxacin. Procedures such as:
- intravenous (IV) fluids
- bile duct drainage
Unlike acute cholangitis, there are no medications for treating chronic cholangitis. A drug called ursodeoxycholic acid may help protect the liver. It works by improving bile flow but does not treat cholangitis itself.
Treatment and care for chronic cholangitis include:
- symptom management
- monitoring liver function
- procedures to open blocked bile ducts
Procedures for both chronic and acute cholangitis include:
Endoscopic and Percutaneous Therapy
Balloon dilation may be used to open ducts and increase bile flow. This helps improve and prevent symptoms. Endoscopic therapy may also be used for sphincterotomy (a procedure that cuts the muscle between the common bile duct and the pancreatic duct) or for stent placement. Endoscopic therapy may require general anesthesia or a certain level of sedation, which sometimes requires intubation to protect the airways. Percutaneous therapy is similar to endoscopic therapy but is performed through the skin.
Surgery
In some cases, the patient may require removal of the blocked part of the bile duct. Additionally, stents may need to be placed to open or drain the bile ducts.
Other Methods
Cholangitis can affect digestion and how the body absorbs certain vitamins. Therefore, the doctor may recommend supplements with vitamins A, D, E, and K. Cholangitis can also cause bone weakness; in this case, the doctor will prescribe medications for osteoporosis. Calcium and vitamin D supplements may help improve bone density and strength.
How Diagnosis is Conducted at Ichilov
In most cases, the doctors at Ichilov clinic conduct diagnostics in a timely manner. The schedule for tests, consultations with doctors, and treatment can often be condensed to three days for foreign patients. This means less time spent away from home, lower costs, and more efficient use of time for patients and their families.
Typically, the first day at the clinic is dedicated to a consultation with the attending physician, who examines the patient, clarifies symptoms, studies the medical history, and collects a complete anamnesis. To make an accurate diagnosis and identify or exclude causes that may be causing painful symptoms, the doctor orders a series of laboratory and instrumental tests to be conducted the following day.
The attending physician may order one or more of the following blood tests:
- Complete blood count (CBC). A complete blood count is used to measure the number of white blood cells. In the presence of infection, the number of white blood cells is likely to be elevated.
- Liver function tests. Liver function tests can help determine if the liver is functioning properly and if liver enzymes are within normal ranges.
- Antimitochondrial antibodies test. The presence of antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) along with the results of other blood tests may indicate cholangitis.
- Cholesterol test. A cholesterol test may be useful in determining the risk factor for gallstone formation, which can lead to cholangitis.
- Blood culture. This test helps identify or rule out a blood infection.
Other tests may also be required, such as samples of urine, bile, or stool.
Several types of imaging tests allow visualization of how the liver and bile ducts are functioning. Possible types of imaging tests include:
- Ultrasound. This allows for the detection of any potential problems with organs and blood vessels without the need for incisions. For diagnosing cholangitis, ultrasound focuses on the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts.
- Computed tomography. This allows for detailed images of internal organs and body structures. For diagnosing cholangitis, a contrast dye is injected intravenously to help identify blockages in the bile ducts.
- Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP). This is a special type of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that provides detailed images of the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. It can also show if there are stones in the gallbladder or any blockages.
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). This procedure combines X-ray and the use of a long flexible tube with a light and camera at the end, called an endoscope. The test allows visualization of any blockages in the bile ducts.
When the test results are ready, an expert panel is convened, during which the doctors collectively review the clinical case to prescribe a relevant treatment plan. After this meeting, the leading specialist meets with the patient to inform them about the treatment plan, explaining the benefits and risks of the chosen methods.
- Computed Tomography
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Ultrasound
How Much Does Cholangitis Treatment Cost
The final cost of treatment becomes clear after examination and the development of a detailed treatment plan. An approximate cost can be obtained in advance by contacting our contact center at the specified phone number.
In any case, the price of treatment in Israel is always somewhat lower than in clinics in Western Europe or the USA. For certain procedures, patients can save up to 50%.
Advantages of Treatment in Israel
- High-class doctors with experience in the best clinics in the world.
- Access to the latest technologies that improve treatment outcomes.
- Modern medications from reputable manufacturers.
- Comfortable accommodation conditions in the clinic, Lux-class rooms.
- Affordable treatment costs, no prepayments or hidden fees.
If you or your loved ones have signs of illness, seek medical assistance as soon as possible. Timely treatment significantly improves the prognosis.