Choledochal cysts: roentgenographic techniques

Abstract

Twenty-four cases of choledochal cysts were reviewed. Only 7 cases were definitely diagnosed preoperatively: 3 by 131I rose bengal scanning, 2 by intravenous cholangiography, 1 by oral cholecystography, and 1 by 99mTc sulfur colloid scanning followed by angiography. The highest percentage of definitive positive examinations was found in the 131I rose bengal scan (3 of 4), but the study most helpful in suggesting the diagnosis in a general way was the upper gastrointestinal series. The more frequent use of 131I rose bengal scanning and ultrasound should increase diagnostic accuracy.