What is PTC in gastroenterology?

Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) involves transhepatic insertion of a needle into a bile duct, followed by injection of contrast material to opacify the bile ducts.

What is a PTC catheter?

PTC (percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography): A contrast material is injected into the liver and bile ducts and x-rays are taken. If a blockage is found, a catheter may be temporarily left in the liver to drain bile into the small intestine or a collection bag outside the body.

What is a PTC in medicine?

A percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) is an X-ray examination of the bile ducts through an IV. A needle is introduced through the skin into the liver, depositing the dye (contrast). The bile duct structure is then viewable via the X-ray.

What are the advantages of ERCP over PTC?

ERCP offers the following advantages: Allows treatment of obstruction using sphincterotomy, stone extraction, stent placement, or balloon-dilation of strictures. Permits biopsies under direct visualization. Provides excellent visualization of the bile ducts.

When Should PTC drain be removed?

The present study suggests that drainage tube removal is safe and effective when performed after a short drainage period of 7 to 10 days if the criteria for the removal of the drainage tube were met.

Is PTC invasive?

PTC is more invasive and painful than ERCP, mainly because the PTC procedure involves puncturing the liver capsule. It also poses the risks of hemoperitoneum and bile peritonitis.

What is the difference between PTC and ERCP?

Of the two procedures used to evaluate the biliary anatomy, ERCP and PTC, ERCP is the first test of choice. PTC is more invasive and painful than ERCP, mainly because the PTC procedure involves puncturing the liver capsule. It also poses the risks of hemoperitoneum and bile peritonitis.