The diagnosis of anastomotic leak after gastroesophagostomy with biliary scintigraphy

Tc-99m HIDA scintigraphy in a patient with septic complications after partial resection of the esophagus and gastroesophagostomy demonstrated a free bile leak through the anastomosis to the thoracic drains. Concomitant attempts to verify this with dye ingestion (methylene blue) and x-ray examinations were negative.