Purpose: To evaluate MR-cholangiography after instillation of contrast media via indwelling biliary tubes.
Methods: In 8 patients with stenoses of the central bile ducts, physiological saline solution and diluted contrast media (Gd-DTPA, 5 mmol/l) were consecutively administered via an indwelling biliary tube. MR cholangiograms were obtained before and after saline injection using a HASTE-sequence and after administration of Gd-DTPA using a T1-weighted gradient echo sequence.
Results: Peripheral bile ducts were better visualised in the water-sensitive approach than after Gd-DTPA enhancement. In patients with short-time drainage bile duct definition was poor due to periportal oedema. Visualisation of peripheral bile ducts could be improved by injection of saline solution in these patients. After administration of Gd-DTPA via the biliary tube contrast enhancement of the central bile ducts was achieved in all patients except for one patient on long-term drainage with an indwelling Yamakawa tube.
Conclusion: T1-weighted visualisation of the central bile ducts can be achieved by means of injection of Gd-DTPA via indwelling biliary tubes.