[Diagnostic methods of gallstones--plain radiogram and contrast examination of biliary system]

There is a wide spectrum of diagnostic imaging modalities to evaluate the biliary system, such as plain radiogram, echogram (US), oral cholecystogram (OCG), intravenous cholangiogram (DIC), CT, MRI, and RI scintigram. Since the late 1970's US, non-invasive and easily available, is the first choice of examination when gallstones are suspected because of achievement of detailed resolution. OCG or DIC is rarely performed for gallstones. However, it was not until the advent of various measures of treatment for gallstones, other than cholecystectomy, such as dissolution therapy or extracorporal shock wave lithotripsy of gallstones, that contrast examination of the biliary system has been re-utilized to evaluate the characteristics, number and size of gallstones, and patency of cystic duct, which are important data. The indications and significance of plain and contrast examinations for gallstone disease is discussed.