An analysis of percutaneous transhepatic cholangiograms

Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiograms (PTCs) of 74 cancer cases with obstruction of the biliary tree were reviewed and evaluated as to the location, degree of obstruction, and location of the obstructing elements ie, intraluminal polypoid intrusions and diffuse infiltration. Special attention was given to the diagnostic value of the sign of an extrinsic compressing mass, a disputed entity. Every one of the above parameters, including extrinsic mass compression effect, proved to be worthwhile in arriving at a reasonable diagnosis. A system for coding obstructions to give maximum information in minimum space for large series of cases and to improve diagnostic accuracy of PTC in the single case is presented.