Percutaneous Transhepatic - PDF document

Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangiogram (PTC) and drainage or stenting Department of Radiology Patient Information What is a percutaneous biliary drainage? A percutaneous biliary drainage is a procedure in which a small plastic tube (drain) is inserted into the liver through the skin to drain the bile. It is sometimes combined with imaging of the bile ducts to see where the blockage may be. This is known as percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram. Sometimes a metal stent is placed in the bile duct to help bile drainage. This is called biliary stenting. Why do you need a PTC and drain? Biliary drainages are typically performed because you have become jaundiced (yellow) and extremely itchy. This is because the bile susceptible to infection. The jaundice (yellow colour) and itching will improve and you will feel much better. Risks PTC and drainage is a safe procedure but as with any medical procedure there are some risks and complications which may arise.

• Small risk of infection • Slight risk of bleeding. Preparation If you take medication to thin the blood, please contact your time before the procedure. Please arrange for a friend or relative to collect you following the procedure. You should not drive for at least 24 hours following this procedure. Fasting You must not eat for six hours before the procedure; however you may Within two hours of the procedure prescribed medications, especially pre-medication can be taken with a small drink of water (30mls). If you are a diabetic and need advice about fasting, please contact the hospital’s Diabetic Advice team prior to admission on (028) 9056 1426. Allergic reactions Tell your consultant if you have any allergies or if you have had a reaction to any drugs or procedures in the past. Admission During admission you will be asked about your medical history will be taken. A small plastic port (cannula) will be placed in a vein and blood samples will

be taken. You will also be asked to change into a gown before transfer to the Department of Radiology. The procedure The procedure takes approximately one to two hours. You will meet a number of staff who will look after you during the procedure. You must have a clear understanding of what the procedure involves including asked to sign a consent form and the Radiologist will answer any questions you may have. You will be transferred to the X-ray table and asked to lie on your back. You may have monitoring devices attached to your chest and �nger and may be given oxygen. You will be given an injection to help you relax and decrease any pain the procedure may cause. Designed by Communications Department Contact details The Radiology Department Ulster Hospital Upper Newtownards Road Dundonald BT16 1RH (028) 9055 0476 The skin at the side of your abdomen will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution and then numbed with an injection of local anaesthetic

. A small needle is inserted into the bile ducts and a small amount of dye (contrast medium) is injected to allow images to be taken of the bile ducts. Once the Radiologist has enough information a drain or a stent will be placed to allow the bile to drain. Most patients a second procedure is required to place stents. However, not all patients require a second procedure. If you are required to attend for a second procedure the Radiologist will use the drain to gain access to the bile ducts. If stenting is successful a drain will not be required. Recovery After the procedure you will be transferred to the ward and nursing staff will carry out routine observations and the treatment site will also be checked. You will generally stay in bed for a number of hours until you have recovered. Once the bile has been drained into the bag your jaundice (yellow colour) and itching will improve. DOR LFT/IRR/11 Author: E Kennedy V 3 Issue: August 2020 Review: August 20