Usefulness of multi‐3‐dimensional computed tomograms fused with multiplanar reconstruction images and peroral cholangioscopy findings in hilar cholangiocarcinoma

Abstract

Multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) images are used for assessing horizontal and vertical extent of hilar cholangiocarcinoma, while peroral cholangioscopy (POCS) is used for diagnosing ductal spread and mapping biopsy. We fused conventional 3-dimensional computed tomography (3DCT) with MPR images and POCS findings for preoperative assessment of cholangiocarcinoma. The extent of cancer was assessed using MPR images, which were plotted and fused onto 3DCT cholangiography. In addition, the results of mapping biopsy performed under POCS were marked on virtual endoscopic imaging and transferred onto a 3DCT image. Once an angiographic CT image was fused, a multi-3DCT image was created. The incision line was determined based on these images. Multi-3DCT images were created for 13 patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma. Of 10 patients who underwent POCS, superficial spread was observed in two. Resection was performed in 12 patients. In two cases, the cut end of the intrahepatic bile duct was positive, resulting in 83.3% diagnostic accuracy for horizontal spread. In all patients, the estimated number of bile ducts was the same as the number of the actual resections. R0 resection was achieved in 10 patients (83.3%). Multi-3DCT imaging proved useful in diagnosing longitudinal ductal spread of hilar cholangiocarcinoma.