Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangiogram

Also known as: PTC, PTHC, PTCA, percutaneous transhepatic cholangiograghy.

What is percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram?

Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram is a procedure used to look for problems in the bile ducts that transport bile from the liver to the small intestine or gallbladder. It is performed with an X-ray.

What happens during the procedure?

The patient lies on a table while an X-ray is focused on the bile ducts. A needle is used to inject contrast dye into the bile ducts, which allows the bile ducts to be seen more clearly while more X-rays are taken.  

Is any special preparation needed?

No special preparations are needed for the procedure.

​ What are the risk factors?

​Bleeding, infection, blood poisoning, inflammation or damage to the bile ducts or surrounding organs are possible risks of percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram.

Reviewed by: Carrie Firestone Baum, MD

This page was last updated on: April 28, 2021 03:47 PM