[Radiomanometric studies of bile flow during surgery on extrahepatic biliary ducts: effects on postoperative course in 1600 patients after follow-up for more than 5 years (author's transl)]. / La radiomanodébitmétrie per-opératoire: incidences sur la chirurgie des voies biliaires extra-hépatiques pour 1600 opérés depuis plus de t ans.

ABSTRACT

The use of a simple, rapid, and reliable method for studying the anatomy and physiopathology of the main biliary pathway during operation by means of radiomanometry is described. This procedure enables a rational and precise therapeutic decision to be taken, as shown by comparing the results obtained in 1600 cases after a period of 5 years, with the interpretation of the initial radiomanometric findings and the type of operation performed. The overall rate of error based on the radiomanometric results, and leading to erroneous therapy, was 2 p. cent (0.43 p. cent excessive and 1.57 p. cent insufficient). No complications due to the method were observed. The main points noted were the absence of wounds to the main biliary pathway and of external bile tract fistulae, and a considerable reduction in the number of repeat operations and postcholecystectomy syndromes (1.5 p. cent).