Hepato-biliary scintigraphy and hepatography with Tc-99m diethyl-acetanilido-iminodiacetate in obstructive jaundice

Tc-99m diethyl-IDA was used for combined serial hepato-biliary scintigraphy and processing of hepatographic curves, using a scintillation camera and an image-processing system. Patients with obstruction of the common bile duct, proven by operation, were investigated. Hepatograms from an area of interest corresponding to the periphery of the right liver lobe varied predictably with changes in the serum levels of alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin. Both anatomical and functional information was obtained. The investigation could be carried out even under reduced liver function. Hepatic uptake of the agent was noted at serum alkaline phosphatase levels up to 1000 U/l and serum bilirubin levels up to 170 mumol/l.     

Retrograde hepatography and indirect lymphography of the liver: an experimental study in the dog.

Retrograde infusion of large amounts of water-soluble contrast agents into the biliary system results in only a brief hepatogram. A dense hepatogram lasting for several weeks and visualization of hepatic and celiac lymph nodes equal to that in direct lymphography can be obtained after retrograde biliary infusion of Ethiodol. In serching for metastasis from tumor in the liver, gall-bladder, bile ducts, pancreas, stomach, and duodenum, radiographic visualization of these nodes may help. If proved safe, the procedure can be performed by endocopic cannulation of the common bile duct.