Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangiography

All you need to know about percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram

What is percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram (PTCA)?

An x-ray of the bile duct is known as percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram (PTCA). The liver and bile duct can be located easily with the help of percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram. Bile is stored in the gallbladder and passes through the bile ducts from the liver to the gallbladder. It helps in digesting food by traveling to the small intestine. Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram (PTCA) helps to find any bile duct blockage.

When is percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram (PTCA) recommended?
Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram (PTCA) helps to find any bile duct blockage. It is recommended when symptoms of bile duct disorder are observed. These may include dark urine, itching, nausea, weight loss, light-colored stools, jaundice, pain in the upper ride side of abdomen, and vomiting.
Symptoms may also include fever or night sweats, tiredness or lack of energy, loss of appetite, and unintentional weight loss.

Preparing for the percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram test

- The provider must be informed if you are pregnant
- Remove all jewelry and wear the hospital gown
- You should have nothing to eat or drink 6 hours prior to the test
- The provider must be informed if you are taking any blood thinners

Understanding the percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram results

Normal Results: The size and appearance of the bile duct are normal according to the age of the person.
Abnormal Results: If the results show that the duct is large, then it may mean that the ducts are blocked, which may be caused by stones or scarring or even cancer in the bile ducts, liver, pancreas, or gallbladder. You will be able to consult a specialist at mfine for all your medical needs.