pthc
Medical Definition of PTHC (percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography)
What is a PTHC With Biliary Drainage?
A Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangiogram (PTHC) is a procedure performed by an Interventional Radiologist (IR) in the Department of Radiology. During this procedure, the IR injects x-ray contrast into the bile ducts. The IR will study the condition of the bile ducts in the liver by using specialized x-ray equipment.
Often, a PTHC is done at the same time as a Percutaneous Transhepatic Biliary Drainage (PTBD) procedure. A PTBD is a specialized procedure done to relieve blockages in the bile ducts without having to perform surgery. This procedure will not cure the disease causing the blockage in your bile ducts. During a PTBD procedure, a catheter (thin tube) is placed within the bile ducts to relieve pressure caused by narrowing or blockage, such as gallstones, strictures, or tumors.
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What Do I Need to Know Before the Procedure?
Pre-registration is a two-step process that you must complete before having a surgery, test, or procedure at California Pacific Medical Center.
Health History. Please call (415) 600-2500 within 1- 2 weeks before your procedure to speak with a Pre-admission Testing nurse who will take your health history, answer your questions, and explain what testing is necessary before your surgery, test, or procedure.
Based on your health status, the nurse may send you to complete any required testing before you come to the hospital. The nurse will tell you where you can go for your test(s).
Pre-Registration. The nurse will connect you to the Patient Access Center to complete the pre-registration process. Please be sure to have your insurance card information ready when you begin.
