Computed tomography with intravenous cholangiography contrast: a method for visualizing choledochal cysts

Choledochal cyst is an uncommon congenital disorder with a low incidence in Europe [4,7]. It is more frequent in Japan, from which 2/3 of the reported cases have come [8]. Patients with choledochal cysts frequently remain undiagnosed for a long time with diffuse complaints [3]. Because the lesion is rare, it is seldom considered among the diagnostic alternatives preoperatively, although imaging is not difficult technically. With preoperative diagnosis, surgery is facilitated, and the outcome for the patient is definitely improved [ 1,5]. Without operation the mortality rate is as high as 97%. [3].