Percutaneous cholangiography with the Okuda needle.

Percutaneous cholangiography with the Okuda needle was performed in 42 consecutive patients with a clinical diagnosis of obstructive jaundice. Six had intrahepatic cholestasis. The technique demonstrated the biliary anatomy in 41 patients and the radiological diagnosis was confirmed by laparotomy, necropsy, or liver biopsy. There were no significant complications. Laparotomy, when indicated, was performed earlier in the course of the jaundice and it was avoided in seven patients. Precise knowledge of the site of the obstruction was of great help to the surgeon. We believe that this technique represents an important advance in the management of the jaundiced patient.