Usefulness of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the diagnosis of biliary leakage following T-tube removal

J Clin Ultrasound. 2010 Jan;38(1):38-40. doi: 10.1002/jcu.20622.

Abstract

Biliary leakage is a serious complication related to T-tube removal. Identifying the location of the leak is important for accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment. We report a case of biliary leakage in the common bile duct (CBD) following a T-tube removal that was successfully diagnosed with contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). The micro-bubble contrast medium was administrated into the bile ducts through the percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage catheter. The real-time delineation of contrast agent leaking from the CBD was confirmed by percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography. CEUS can be used to detect biliary leakage after T-tube removal.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Common Bile Duct / diagnostic imaging
  • Common Bile Duct / surgery
  • Common Bile Duct Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Contrast Media*
  • Device Removal / adverse effects*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Drainage / instrumentation*
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / methods*
  • Male
  • Microbubbles
  • Middle Aged
  • Postoperative Complications / diagnostic imaging*
  • Sulfur Hexafluoride
  • Ultrasonography

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Sulfur Hexafluoride