Transcholecystic operative cholangiography: an alternative technique.

The current standard methods of carrying out operative cholangiography by cannulating the cystic duct or by direct puncture of the common bile duct are not without practical difficulties and potential hazards. An alternative method of introducing contrast material into the bile ducts for intra-operative imaging is described which is easy to perform, effective and safe. The technique consists of injecting contrast material into the previously emptied gallbladder and then propelling the contrast into the bile ducts by squeezing the viscus before taking X-ray films.