[Percutaneous cholecysto- and cholangiography (author's transl)]

Combined sonographic and radiographic investigations of the biliary duct system using direct percutaneous transhepatic fine needle puncture under constant visualisation and contrast medium demonstration were done in 37 patients. The results show numerous advantages of the method: 1. It is very safe as all tissue and organ areas are under constant surveillance. 2. There is almost no risk of infection. 3. The investigation can be performed on predamaged liver parenchyma. 4. Cytologic material can be obtained; there are no extravasates. The information value of this combined investigation method is greater in a similar group of indications than with radiographic or sonographic methods alone. It appears possible that the risks of ERCP and PTC may be reduced. Further investigations will have to establish the clinical value and risks of this new method.