[The results of transvenous cholangiography (contrast media)]

Transvenous cholangiography is a method for the direct demonstration of the biliary passages described by Hanafee and Weiner; its main indication is in the investigation of obstructive jaundice. This method, which does not require immediate subsequent operation, was used in 41 patients. In three patients catheterisation of hepatic veins was unsuccessful. Of the remaining 38 patients, puncture of a bile duct was successful in 20. In 29 patients biliary obstruction was present, and this was demonstrated in 19. In the absence of obstruction the procedure was successful in only one case. The main complications were a sub-capsular liver haematoma, with rupture into the abdominal cavity and one case of haemobilia.