Bile is a body fluid that helps the body digest fats. It is produced in the liver, stored in the gall bladder and is eventually carried to the small intestines to aid in digestion. When one or more of the ducts that carry bile narrows or becomes blocked, patients become jaundiced, characterized by a yellowing of the skin. In some cases, the bile may leak into the abdominal cavity. By using x-ray, PTC, allows the interventional radiologist to see if the ducts are partially or completely blocked. If there is a blockage, the radiologist can insert a tiny tube into the duct and create a drainage path directly into the intestines or a collection bag outside the body. If a bag is required, it will remain in place until the blockage is removed or the duct repaired. In some cases, a stent, or small mesh tube, can be put in place to open up the duct permanently.

Bile is a body fluid that helps the body digest fats. It is produced in the liver, stored in the gall bladder and is eventually carried to the small intestines to aid in digestion. When one or more of the ducts that carry bile narrows or becomes blocked, patients become jaundiced, characterized by a yellowing of the skin. In some cases, the bile may leak into the abdominal cavity. By using x-ray, PTC, allows the interventional radiologist to see if the ducts are partially or completely blocked. If there is a blockage, the radiologist can insert a tiny tube into the duct and create a drainage path directly into the intestines or a collection bag outside the body. If a bag is required, it will remain in place until the blockage is removed or the duct repaired. In some cases, a stent, or small mesh tube, can be put in place to open up the duct permanently.