Radiologic intervention in oriental cholangiohepatitis.

Interventional radiologic techniques can make a useful contribution to the management of patients with recurrent symptoms following surgical palliation of oriental cholangiohepatitis. Percutaneous removal of multiple, soft, pigmented biliary stones that form in this disease can be achieved by a combination of basket retrieval and crushing, as well as suction and irrigation techniques. Ducts that are obstructed by strictures can be drained by percutaneous catheters. Complete or partial symptomatic relief was obtained in six of eight patients, obviating additional surgical intervention.