Cholangiogram - What you need to know.

A cholangiogram is a medical imaging test that shows the bile ducts, which carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and intestine. This test helps doctors diagnose problems like blockages, gallstones, infections, or tumors in the bile duct system.

Key Points for Patients:

• Purpose: It helps identify causes of symptoms such as jaundice (yellow skin/eyes), unexplained abdominal pain (especially on the upper right side), abnormal liver tests, itching, or to check bile ducts during and after surgery.

Types of Cholangiograms:

• ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): Endoscope and X-rays to see and treat bile duct issues.

• MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography): MRI without contrast dye—non-invasive.

• Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangiogram (PTC): Needle through the skin into the liver, dye injected for X-rays.

• Intraoperative Cholangiogram: During gallbladder surgery, dye is injected and X-rays are taken.

• CT Cholangiogram: Uses CT scans and dye to create detailed images of the bile ducts.

Preparation:

• You may be asked to fast (no food or drink) for several hours before the test.

• You might need blood tests and to inform your doctor about allergies, medications, pregnancy, or bleeding problems.

Procedure:

• A contrast dye is used to highlight the bile ducts in X-rays or MRI images.

• Depending on the type, sedation, local anesthesia, or general anesthesia may be used for comfort.

• For some types, you may need to stay still on an X-ray table or undergo the test during surgery

After the Test:

• You may be monitored for a short time and advised to drink fluids to flush out the dye.

• Most people go home the same day and recover quickly. Avoid heavy activity for 24 hours unless your doctor says otherwise.

Risks:

• Mild discomfort, rare allergic reactions to the dye, infection, or—very rarely—damage to organs.

• CT-based cholangiograms use radiation, but this is minimized for safety.

Alternatives:

• Abdominal ultrasound or MRI without contrast, depending on your health needs.

If your doctor recommends a cholangiogram, it is an important step toward diagnosing and treating bile duct problems, enabling early and effective care. Always ask your healthcare team about any preparations you need to make, and about any concerns you have regarding the procedure or its results