Radiology of the Mirizzi syndrome: diagnostic importance of the transhepatic cholangiogram

The essential feature of the MIrizzi syndrome is partial common hepatic duct obstruction due to an impacted cystic duct stone. This entity has rarely been reported but is apparently more common than previously thought. Our review of the world literature shows 42 proven cases in 18 publications from 7 different countries. We are adding 11 further cases with surgical proof. The preoperative x-ray diagnosis of the Mirizzi syndrome was established in 10 of the 42 previously reported cases. This diagnostic problem was probably due to limitations of plain film and intravenous cholangiography techniques. The preoperative diagnosis was possible in 8 of our 11 cases, primarily with the use of transhepatic cholangiography. The preoperative diagnosis is important and can lead to a decrease in surgical complications, particularly if stone penetration, fistula formation, and adjacent inflammatory masses are demonstrated.