New fine needle for cholangiography with optional sheath for decompression.

A 45-cm Chiba needle with a 20-cm sheath at the hub end has been used successfully for percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography in 10 patients, including chronic decompression in one patient. This method permits localization of the biliary tree, vascular structures, cysts, cavities, pelvocalyceal system, and tumors with a 22 gauge needle and allows placement of a larger catheter for drainage or a larger needle for biopsy if required. No complications were observed.