Multi-detector row computed tomography for the diagnosis of hilar bile duct carcinoma

Abstract

MDCT is a reliable tool for the diagnosis of hilar cholangiocarcinoma. Primary tumor is appeared as focal wall thickening and/or intraductal mass-formation accompanied with enhancement of contrast medium. To reveal the tumor extension and decide the proper biliary drainage root, MDCT examination had better be done prior to biliary drainage. Original thin-axial images are important to precise analysis of bile duct anatomy and tumor extension assumed by reconstructed 3-dimensional images. Analysis of biliary anatomy should be performed based on that of portal vein. To make full use of MDCT, picture archiving and communication system is necessary.