Choledochal Malformations: Surgical Implications of Radiologic Findings

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this article is to review the relevant pathophysiologic features, appearances, and surgical implications of choledochal malformations.

Conclusion: Choledochal malformations, colloquially called choledochal cysts, initially described in 1723, have been recategorized multiple times, the most widely accepted being the Todani classification based on morphologic features and location. Although readily applied to imaging findings, this classification system does not correlate well with clinical and surgical management. In 2004, Visser and colleagues proposed an alternative that emphasized the etiologic factors, imaging appearance, and treatment approach.

Keywords: Caroli disease; biliary tract; choledochal cysts; choledochocele; liver; pediatric; right upper quadrant cyst.