Treatment:

An operation called the Kasai procedure is done to connect the liver to the small intestine, going around the abnormal ducts. It is most successful if done before the baby is 8 weeks old. However, a liver transplant may still be needed.

Expectations (prognosis):

Early surgery will improve the survival of more than a third of babies with this condition. The long-term benefit of liver transplant is not yet known, but is expected to improve survival.

Complications:

• Infection
• Irreversible cirrhosis
• Liver failure
• Surgical complications, including failure of the Kasai procedure

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if your child appears jaundiced, or if other symptoms of biliary atresia develop.