Skip to content

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Intraoperative Cholangiogram

Surgery Overview

An intraoperative cholangiogram is a procedure that is sometimes done during the surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). The doctor places a small tube called a catheter into the cystic duct, which drains bile from the gallbladder into the common bile duct. A dye that blocks X-rays is injected into the common bile duct, and then you will have X-rays taken.

You may have intraoperative cholangiogram to:

  • Look for gallstones that may be in the common bile duct.
  • Allow the surgeon to see the anatomy of the bile duct system from the liver to the small intestine. Viewing the bile ducts before removal of the gallbladder may help ensure that the surgeon does not accidentally cut or damage the common bile duct.

Risks

There are some risks of having an intraoperative cholangiogram.

Some complications include:

  • Infection and bleeding.
  • Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).
  • Damage to the common bile duct.
  • Allergic reaction to the contrast dye.

Credits

Current as of: July 26, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Top of the page

Find an Office

Gladstone Office

6060 North Oak Trafficway
Suite 101
Gladstone, MO 64118
Phone: (816) 941-0800

Overland Park Office

4370 W 109th St.
#350
Overland Park, KS 66211
Phone: (816) 941-0800

Independence Office

19550 E 39th St
Suite 320
Independence, MO 64057
Phone: (816) 941-0800

Lee’s Summit

1980 SE Blue Parkway
Suite 2330
Lee’s Summit, MO 64063
Phone: (816) 941-0800