Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography

The experience with percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography at the University Hospital of the West Indies has been reviewed. The success rate has increased with improved technique, and the results of this series compare favorably with other workers. The introduction of the flexible 23-gauge Chiba needle has further reduced our morbidity with the procedure and, although the interval between study and laparotomy within 24 hours of PTC is still recommended. The selection and preparation of patients remain of paramount importance especially to document and to correct coagulation defects and biliary infection prior to embarking on the investigation (AU)