Secondary intra- and extrahepatic bile duct dilatation is a very common condition that can be caused by several diseases. However, it has been rarely discussed in the specialized literature. Moreover, no distinct etiology can be determined in some cases, which hampers the diagnosis and treatment. Here, we discuss the etiological classification and treatment strategies of secondary intra- and extrahepatic bile duct dilatation based on an extensive literature review, as well as our experimental research and clinical experience. The etiology of secondary intra- and extrahepatic bile duct dilatation can be classified in different ways. From a clinicopathological perspective, it can be classified into obstruction-, lesion-, and compression-induced dilatation. Treatment varies depending on the cause. For example, endoscopic dilation or stenting is used for biliary strictures, laparoscopic choledochectomy for stone removal, and resection for cholangiocarcinoma.

继发性肝内和肝外胆管扩张是一种非常常见的病症，可由多种疾病引起。然而，在专业文献中却很少对此进行讨论。此外，在某些情况下无法确定明确的病因，这妨碍了诊断和治疗。在此，我们基于大量文献回顾以及我们的实验研究和临床经验，讨论继发性肝内和肝外胆管扩张的病因分类和治疗策略。继发性肝内和肝外胆管扩张的病因可以按不同的方式分类。从临床病理学角度来看，可分为阻塞性扩张、病变性扩张和压迫性扩张。治疗方法取决于病因。例如，内窥镜扩张或支架置入用于胆管狭窄，腹腔镜胆总管切除术用于结石清除，以及切除胆管癌。