OBJECTIVE: To (a) describe the technical modification of trans-caval TJLB and (b) review our series of nine cases. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of all trans-caval TJLBs performed; we assessed indications for the procedure, technical success, complications, adequacy of specimen and histological positivity. RESULTS: The technical success rate of the procedure was 9/9 (100%); the minor complication rate was 1/9 (11%), adequate specimen was obtained in all cases and a histological diagnosis was achieved in 8/9 (89%) cases. CONCLUSION: This preliminary report suggests that trans-caval modification of TJLB is a relatively safe procedure that may be useful in cases where conventional TJLB is infeasible. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE: (a) We describe the technique of trans-caval TJLBs and report our findings in the largest series of published cases. (b) Trans-caval TJLB is relatively safe and can be used to increase the success rates of conventional TJLB.
OBJECTIVE: To (a) describe the technical modification of trans-caval TJLB and (b) review our series of nine cases. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of all trans-caval TJLBs performed; we assessed indications for the procedure, technical success, complications, adequacy of specimen and histological positivity. RESULTS: The technical success rate of the procedure was 9/9 (100%); the minor complication rate was 1/9 (11%), adequate specimen was obtained in all cases and a histological diagnosis was achieved in 8/9 (89%) cases. CONCLUSION: This preliminary report suggests that trans-caval modification of TJLB is a relatively safe procedure that may be useful in cases where conventional TJLB is infeasible. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE: (a) We describe the technique of trans-caval TJLBs and report our findings in the largest series of published cases. (b) Trans-caval TJLB is relatively safe and can be used to increase the success rates of conventional TJLB.