[Transhepatic therapy of tumors of the biliary system]

The transhepatic percutaneous approach is a supplementary diagnostic and therapeutic method in case of biliary obstruction, in particular when the endoscopic approach fails. The bile ducts are punctured by a thin needle and then drained, followed if desired by insertion of a prosthesis. Although the method is associated with more complications than standard endoscopy, it markedly improves therapeutic possibilities.