DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS:

• Histologically confirmed primary or recurrent biliary duct carcinoma from the proximal, middle, or distal bile ducts
• Measurable or evaluable disease that is considered resectable

• No distant metastases

  • No non-contiguous liver metastases
  • Resectable extension into adjacent liver allowed
  • No metastasis to peritoneal cavity
  • No Bismuth type 4 lesion or metastasis to celiac axis or para-aortic lymph nodes
• No tumor encasement of portal vein or hepatic artery
• No gross ascites

PATIENT CHARACTERISTICS:

Age:

• 18 and over

Performance status:

• ECOG 0-1

Life expectancy:

• Not specified

Hematopoietic:

• Absolute neutrophil count greater than 1,500/mm^3
• Platelet count greater than 100,000/mm^3

Hepatic:

• No cirrhosis
• No active cholangitis
• No fever or signs of infection in biliary drainage system
• Measurement of C-reactive protein optimal
• Bilirubin less than 3 mg/dL

Renal:

• Creatinine less than 1.5 mg/dL OR
• Creatinine clearance greater than 60 mL/min

Other:

• Not pregnant or nursing
• Fertile patients must use effective barrier contraception during and for 3 months after study
• No weight loss greater than 20% ideal body weight
• No active duodenal or gastric ulcers
• No other prior or concurrent primary malignancy except adequately treated carcinoma in situ of the cervix or basal cell carcinoma

PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY:

Biologic therapy:

• Not specified

Chemotherapy:

• At least 4 weeks since prior chemotherapy

Endocrine therapy:

• Not specified

Radiotherapy:

• No prior radiotherapy

Surgery:

• See Disease Characteristics