bile stasis

Last reviewed 01/2018

Bile stasis is associated with an increased incidence of gallbladder stones. It may be caused by:

  • gallbladder obstruction:
    • dysfunction of the spiral valve in the cystic duct
    • reflux of duodenal contents
    • pre-existing small stones

  • reduced gallbladder contractility:
    • in pregnancy
    • long-standing inflammation
    • following truncal vagotomy and partial gastrectomy
    • long term parenteral nutrition - lack of good oral intake precludes the release of cholecystokinin, a hormonal stimulant of gallbladder contraction