[CT and ERCP for the combined study of biliary tract diseases]

The value of combined CT and ERCP for examining the bile ducts was studied retrospectively. CT on its own led to a correct diagnosis in 59% of cases. CT was valuable for estimating the calibre of the bile ducts, for localising the level of obstruction, for demonstrating calcified biliary concrements, and for showing peribiliary tumours. ERCP yielded a correct diagnosis in 67% of cases. The value of ERCP lies in the demonstration of poorly calcified and small concrements, strictures, tumours with ductal infiltration, and for investigating the post-cholecystectomy syndrome. Combining these two types of examination increases diagnostic accuracy to 82%.