Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography in Sudan

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Gastroenterology
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Obstructive jaundice diagnosis requires accurate visualization of biliary tree anatomy.
• Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) is an invasive diagnostic procedure.
• Minimizing procedural complications is crucial for patient safety and treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of conventional needle PTC for diagnosing obstructive jaundice.
• To assess the role of bile aspiration during PTC in preventing post-procedural complications.
• To determine if immediate surgery is necessary after conventional needle PTC.

Main Methods:

• Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) was attempted in 16 patients with obstructive jaundice.
• A conventional needle was used for the procedure.
• Bile aspiration was performed, and patient outcomes were monitored for complications.

Main Results:

• The procedure was successful in 15 out of 16 patients.
• Successful PTC allowed visualization of the obstruction's nature and site.
• A mean of 22 ml of bile was aspirated in successful cases.
• No patients experienced pain, bile leakage, bleeding, or septicemia post-procedure.
• Only one patient developed subsequent parenchymal jaundice.

Conclusions:

• Conventional needle PTC is a safe and effective method for diagnosing obstructive jaundice.
• Bile aspiration during PTC may reduce the risk of septicemia.
• Immediate surgery is not always required following conventional needle PTC, allowing for planned surgical intervention.