What procedure is used to distinguish between obstructive jaundice and other causes of bile duct obstruction?

The procedure that is utilized to differentiate between obstructive jaundice and other causes of bile duct obstruction is percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography. This technique involves the insertion of a needle through the skin into the liver to inject contrast dye directly into the bile ducts, allowing for imaging under fluoroscopy. This imaging reveals the structure of the bile ducts and can identify obstructions, lesions, or strictures, giving insight into whether the issue is due to malignancy or benign conditions affecting the bile duct.

This procedure is particularly effective because it allows for direct visualization of the biliary tree, making it easier to locate and assess any blockages leading to obstructive jaundice. Such clarity is essential for formulating appropriate treatment plans, which may involve further interventions or surgery.

In contrast, while the other procedures listed have their specific applications, they do not serve the primary purpose of distinguishing between obstructive jaundice and other types of bile duct issues as effectively. For instance, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is typically utilized for both diagnosis and therapeutic interventions in the bile ducts, but it may not provide as direct access to obstructions that are more systemic or require evaluation of underlying liver function and anatomy. Magnetic resonance cholangi