A study of anatomical variants and congenital anomalies of the biliary tree in a Caribbean population

Abstract

Objective: To familiarize the viewer with normal biliary anatomy and to analyze the variants of the biliary anatomy within a Caribbean population. Methods: A review of all MRCP procedures done at a large tertiary institution from April 31st, 2013 to March 31st, 2014. Results: Of 82 examinations analyzed, 59 (72%) demonstrated type A (normal) biliary anatomy. 18% demonstrated type B (trifurcation/ triple confluence of the ducts) anatomy. 6% demonstrated the C (RP drains directly into the left hepatic duct) and 4% demonstrated type D (RA drains directly into left hepatic duct). Conclusion: Despite a wide variety of ethnic groups in Trinidad and Tobago the majority of patients demonstrate normal biliary anatomy. However a significant proportion (18%) demonstrate triple confluence/trifurcation variant of their biliary anatomy.