Segmental biliary obstruction: its detection and significance

The computed tomographic and clinical findings of five patients with segmental biliary dilatation are presented. The difference between segmental and complete biliary obstruction is emphasized. In patients with isolated segmental biliary obstruction, there is minimal total bilirubin elevation. Primary therapeutic efforts should be directed at controlling patient's primary lesion and hepatic metastases. Awareness of this entity should avoid unnecessary biliary drainage procedures.