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Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram (PTCA) How the Test is Performed:
The test is performed in a radiology department by a radiologist. You will be asked to lie supine (on your back) on the X-ray table. The upper right side of the abdomen is cleansed and a local anesthetic is given. A long, thin, flexible needle is then inserted into the liver; and with guidance from the fluoroscope, the bile duct is found and the contrast medium injected. The contrast medium then flows through the ducts and can be seen on the fluoroscopic monitor. X-ray films are taken of any abnormal findings.
How to Prepare:
Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant . You will be given a hospital gown to put on. Remove all jewelry.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
How it Feels:
There will be a sting as the anesthetic is given and some discomfort as the needle is advanced into the liver. You may be given medication for sedation and/or pain control. The X-ray will cause no discomfort.
Risks:
There is a slight chance of an allergic reaction to the contrast medium (iodine).
There is a slight chance of excessive blood loss , blood poisoning ( sepsis ), and inflammation of the bile ducts.
Why this Test is Performed:
The procedure may distinguish between obstructive and non-obstructive jaundice (a yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes caused by an excessive amount of bile in the bloodstream). If there is an obstruction, it will be located.
Normal Values:
The bile ducts are normal for the age of the patient.
Abnormal Results:
The results may show ducts that are dilated which may indicate there is an obstruction. The obstruction may be caused by stones, or cancer in the biliary (liver secretion) tract or pancreas.
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
Cost:
The estimated cost is $1,500
Special Considerations:
Not applicable.
A cholecystogram in a patient with gallstones.
bile ducts after a contrast medium is injected directly into the bile duct.
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation (like light); they are of higher energy, however, and can penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as bone) will appear white, air will be black, and other structures will be shades of gray. Learn to make informed health care decisions with the Medical Encyclopedia at
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