Safe percutaneous canalization of the biliary tree using a sheath in patients with malignant biliary stenosis.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Percutaneous canalization of the bile duct is essential for radiologic interventions of the biliary tract. This study discusses technical considerations for safe approaches for canalization of the bile duct when using a sheath. METHODS: During early and late periods, percutaneous canalization was performed in 104 patients and 79 patients with malignant biliary stenosis, respectively. The late period differed from the early period in that the bile duct was canalized with a previously placed sheath to prevent catheter dislodgement during the procedure. RESULTS: During the early and late periods, catheter dislodgement during canalization occurred in three of 104 patients (3%) and none of 79 patients (0%), respectively. The success rate of canalization without cholangioscopy in the late period (99%) was better than that in the early period (89%; p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Placement of a sheath into the biliary tree increases the safety and success of canalization in patients with malignant stenosis.