The bile duct is a tube that carries bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine. It is located in the upper right abdomen, behind the liver and in front of the spine. The bile duct is about 6 inches long and about 1/4 inch in diameter.
The bile duct is made up of two parts: the hepatic duct and the common bile duct. The hepatic duct carries bile from the liver to the common bile duct. The common bile duct carries bile from the liver to the small intestine.
The bile duct is important for digestion. Bile helps to break down fats in food. When food is eaten, the gallbladder contracts and releases bile into the common bile duct. The bile then flows through the common bile duct and into the small intestine.
Bile duct cancer is a rare type of cancer that can occur in the bile duct. Bile duct cancer is most common in people over the age of 60. The symptoms of bile duct cancer can vary, but may include:
If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of bile duct cancer can improve the chances of survival.
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