Oriental cholangiohepatitis: diagnostic imaging and interventional management

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Gastroenterology
• Hepatology

Background:

• Oriental cholangiohepatitis (OCH) is characterized by recurrent biliary stones and strictures.
• Patients often have a history of multiple prior operations, leading to complex postoperative complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the diagnostic and therapeutic radiologic experience in managing patients with OCH.
• To evaluate the roles of sonography, CT, and interventional radiology in OCH management.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of six patients with OCH and prior operations.
• Utilized sonography and CT for diagnosis of stones and ductal dilatation.
• Employed interventional radiology techniques including percutaneous transhepatic procedures and flushing.

Main Results:

• Sonography effectively detected stones and extrahepatic ductal dilatation but had limitations with intrahepatic findings.
• CT provided comprehensive diagnostic information.
• Interventional procedures were performed in multiple outpatient sessions with cholangitis as the sole complication.

Conclusions:

• Sectional imaging (CT, sonography) and interventional radiology are crucial for OCH diagnosis and treatment.
• These modalities play a significant role in both pre- and postoperative patient management.
• Outpatient management with interventional radiology is feasible and effective for OCH.