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Post-cholecystectomy bile leak — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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HardSurgery (post-operative, follow-up)Post-cholecystectomy bile leakUSMLE Step 3

A 46-year-old woman is 1 week after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. She has right upper quadrant pain, fever, and bilious output from a surgical drain. Bilirubin is mildly elevated. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with biliary stenting

Persistent bile leak after cholecystectomy is commonly managed with ERCP and stenting to lower ductal pressure.

Reference: SAGES biliary surgery guidance; USMLE Step 3 Content Outline